HRM council has unanimously approved the $8.1 million Solar City project.

In the first year, the project will see about 1,000 residents heating their hot water with solar energy.

The province of Nova Scotia was key in initiating the Solar City program by providing legislative amendments, project development support, and a $1.25 million contribution to fund the efficiency ns rebates.

HRM will begin ramping up the program over the next four to six weeks and expects to hold open house sessions in January and February which will explain the details of the program.