Solar Together scheme returns to Charnwood

Published: Wed 14th June, 2023

A group-buying energy scheme which can help residents invest in solar panels to save on energy bills and cut carbon emissions is returning to Charnwood.

Solar Together Leicestershire helps people looking to make an investment in solar panels on their house and battery storage systems for a reduced rate.

Residents can sign up for free and registrations are now open. For more information and to sign up, visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/solar-together

People who register will be entered into an auction, where solar PV suppliers compete by offering the lowest rate for solar panel installation. The more people registered, the lower the price can be.

Working with independent experts iChoosr, Solar Together then provides those signed up with a free, no-obligation offer from the successful energy supplier. A personal recommendation will be emailed out with information on the winning solar panel installer, the proposed system, costs, and savings ready for residents to make their choice.

This innovative scheme builds on six years of highly successful Solar Together programmes run across the UK with the Solar Together Leicestershire involved for the last 12 months.

To date Solar Together has delivered more than 14,000 installations and more than 300,000 tonnes of avoided lifetime carbon emissions across the country.

In Leicestershire the first round of the scheme enabled 397 households to purchase and install solar panels on their homes. And there are around 100 still to go. This will save 589 tonnes of CO2 and will produce 1,100kW of solar power per year across the county.

The Council is also working with neighbouring authorities as part of the Green Living Leicestershire Partnership, to make the transition to clean energy as cost effective and hassle-free as possible.

Charnwood Borough Council is continuing to work towards the authority being carbon neutral by 2030. Installing solar panels on homes can reduce carbon emissions by generating clean electricity and save homeowners money on energy costs.

Cllr Louise Jones, lead member for climate action and net zero said: “I am pleased to see Solar Together return for the second year and support residents in purchasing solar panels which could also help them save money on electricity bills over time.

“The Council has already made progress in reducing its carbon emissions but everyone can play a part in climate change and this scheme will help residents reduce their own carbon emissions.”

Marie-Louise Abretti, iChoosr UK Solar Manager added “With energy prices continuing to increase, residents of Leicestershire are looking for opportunities to reduce their carbon emissions, save on energy bills and increase their independence from the grid.  The Solar Together group-buying scheme offers a straightforward way to make an informed decision and to access a competitive offer from a trusted, vetted provider.”

Charnwood Borough Council is working in partnership with Blaby District Council, Harborough District Council, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, Leicestershire County Council, Melton Borough Council, North West Leicestershire District Council and Oadby and Wigston Borough Council.