TWO water turbines are set to be installed at Caversham Weir.
Community group Reading Hydro received planning permission for the water-based devices which will generate around 380 MWh of electricity, enough to power 100 average homes.
The group will also give the wird a facelift by building a new natural fish pass. to help wildlife pass through.
Anne Wheldon, director of Reading Hydro, said: "This is a huge step forward towards having hydro generation at the heart of our community. Reading is a wonderful town and it’ll be great to contribute to that with our community fund and by improving the town's carbon footprint."
The community benefit society is on the lookout for new members and anyone interested can visit www.readingsustainabilitycentre.co.uk
Tom Youngman added: "I paid my £1 to become a member of Reading Hydro two months ago and it's been really great to contribute to such an important community project.
"I would encourage everyone to take part. You don't need to know anything about hydropower, if you think the project’s a good idea it's easy to get stuck in."
Work on the turbines will begin in early 2018.
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