DURHAM County Council and the Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Brigade are to use "green'' electricity.

From next month npower major business accounts will supply the council and the brigade with electricity produced from sustainable natural sources, including wind farms and hydro-electricity stations.

It will provide 10.7 per cent of the total energy needs of County Hall, the Service Direct depot at Framwellgate Moor and the brigade headquarters. This is above the Government's 10.4 per cent renewable energy target by the year 2010.

Council leader Ken Manton said: "Environmental issues are important to us, and therefore we aim to maximise our energy efficiency.

"We already do simple things, such as using energy efficient light bulbs and energy efficient boilers, so switching to renewable energy means we can play a greater role in reducing our CO2 emissions.''

Greener electricity is more expensive but the move will save an estimated 1,470 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.

Chris Allen, sales director of npower major business accounts, said: "The Climate Change Levy, introduced in April 2001, is designed to tax companies who are energy inefficient.

"By thinking green, Durham County Council and the Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Brigade will reduce their tax bills, thereby countering the increased cost of their renewable energy.

"Everyone needs to play their part in reducing the amount of carbon emissions admitted into the environment, if the Government is to achieve its target of meeting 10.4 per cent of UK electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2010.''

The council said its latest eco-friendly measure was particularly important following a Government White Paper, Our Energy Future, which was released last month.

The council is preparing an action plan to identify areas where energy consumption can be reduced.