THE FIRST ever photo booth powered entirely by solar energy will open to customers in St Austell on Monday.
The town is one step closer to its aspiration of becoming the green capital of Cornwall thanks to an eco boost from White River Place.
Created by Photo-Me, the new booth does not need any external electrical connection and is entirely powered by a photovoltaic solar panel on its roof.
It takes International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) approved identity photos as well as photo sheets and fun pictures.
The green booth is the first of its kind to be installed anywhere in the UK.
"It's very exciting for White River Place to have the innovative new solar powered photo booth installed – and to be the first place in the country to have one is a real coup for St Austell," said centre manager Claire Daniel.
"The booth will have all the functions you would expect, is easy to operate, and can be used for passport and other identity photos, as well as fun pictures and group shots, but won't be costing the earth in energy."
The sunshine energy generated by the booth can reach 500 watts per day, which is stored in a battery while the booth is not in use.
It is designed to minimise the amount of energy used, so it is activated by pressure sensors when people step inside the booth, and the lighting only comes on when pictures are being taken.
When not in use, it remains in sleep mode to keep power use at its lowest.
"With a photovoltaic solar panel on its roof, the booth is self-sufficient in terms of power supply," said François Alves De Freitas, Photo-Me international head of marketing.
"We are very proud to install the first solar photo booth in the country at the White River place in St Austell; the ideal location in the sunniest area of the country."
