A new energy-efficient housing estate is set to be built in Sheffield, as councillors have approved plans for the development.Sheffield city council reports that the green estate will consist of 41 homes off Beldon Road, each featuring a number of low-carbon features.High-spec window glazing and increased insulation will help reduce each home's carbon emissions, while high-energy heating and recycling facilities will also help to reduce environmental impact.In addition, each home will feature a three-foot solar panel for electricity generation.According to the National Energy Foundation, solar electric panels - which transform sunlight directly into electricity - are a clean and quiet option for renewable energy generation.The low-carbon energy alternative is currently being used to power parking meters in Milton Keynes and has been hailed as a cost-effective power source for those living in rural areas. Larger solar electric systems can be used by buildings and communities to generate low-carbon electricity back into the National Grid, the group asserted.