AN entire town is going green to protect the environment and stave off climate change.

Nearly 13,000 streetlights, 850 road signs and about 60 sets of traffic lights across Hartlepool are already using green electricity.

Now, Hartlepool Council has struck a deal with energy supplier npower, on switching all public buildings, the Town Hall Theatre, leisure and community centres and a council depot to power generated from renewable sources, such as wind, solar and hydro power.

It is working towards having all of its schools powered in the same way, with 32 out of 38 using renewable energy sources from the start of next month.

Helen Beaman, the council's environment co-ordinator, said: "The council recognises the importance of striving for a sustainable future, and it is important that we are seen to be practising what we preach.

"Previously, only the Civic Centre was powered exclusively by green electricity and I am delighted that we are now in a position to power our other buildings in the same way."

Councillor Peter Jackson, the council's cabinet member with responsibility for performance management, said: "The council has a community leadership role, and I believe that it is vital that we set a good example.

"Hopefully, other organisations and individuals across the town will now follow our lead and switch to green energy too."