A new energy project built with the help of volunteers who have a history of problematic drug or alcohol use has been completed.

The Energy Tree at Millennium Square is a community-led public art installation and renewable power source.

The project aims to engage the public in energy issues and will provide a number of interactive functions, including phone charging and WiFi.

Volunteers from Bristol Drugs Project (BDP), who completed a programme with grass-roots energy initiative Demand Energy Equality, built the solar panel leaves for the tree from scratch with the help of artist John Packer.

Maggie Telfer, CEO of BDP said: “The opportunity for people in Bristol with a history of problematic drug or alcohol use – one of the city’s most marginalised and stigmatised populations – to build the Energy Tree in the Green Capital year helps to support their recovery.

“The Energy Tree reflects Bristol’s commitment to provide opportunities for everyone to play their part in the European Green Capital.”

The project will go live next month.