Solar panels are renowned for being an effective way to reduce your property’s carbon footprint and utility costs, but they’re not practical or feasible for everyone. Maybe you’re a renter and don’t have control over solar installations for the property, or maybe your roof isn’t compatible with a solar PV system, and you don’t have ground space for a ground array. In these instances, you might think that it’s not possible for you to reap the rewards that solar power can offer but that’s not the case. Community solar offers a solution.
What is community solar?
Also known as solar farms, shared solar, or roofless solar, community solar projects are central power plants that generate electricity for the grid. But unlike utility-scale solar, private developers and subscribers can own community solar farms. This enables individuals to purchase electricity generated off-site in the form of credits on their electricity bill.
What are the benefits of community solar?
There are many benefits to solar power, and community solar enables a greater number of people to enjoy these. Let’s take a look at what opportunities are on offer for receiving renewable energy this way,
You don’t need to own your property
Most landlords won’t allow changes to their property, which means that for renters, installing solar panels on the roof is off-limits. But community solar means that you only need an electricity account and a utility company that is eligible to make the most of renewable power.
You can make the most of savings on your energy costs
Energy costs have seen record rises in the past year, and it’s made paying for electricity difficult for so many people around the UK. Community solar, on the other hand, can help you recoup some of the costs. Bill credits purchased from a community solar provider could result in savings of up to £200 a year on your energy costs, depending on the size of the system and the programme you’re a part of.
It strengthens the utility grid
In certain regions, the utility grid now struggles to meet the growing demand for electricity, particularly during peak times, which increases the risk of blackouts. A means to address this is by utilities and developers collaborating strategically to establish community solar farms in high-demand areas. By doing so, they not only enhance the grid's capacity to deliver reliable power but also reduce the need for expensive grid maintenance and repairs. In other words, these solar farms act as a vital support system, ensuring a more resilient and stable energy supply.
Joining and cancelling Is easy
Participating in a community solar programme is remarkably straightforward, requiring no changes to your existing utility service. But the ease doesn’t stop there. Most community solar options don't require any upfront costs; you'll only start paying after you see savings reflected as bill credits on your monthly utility statement.
Moreover, many of these schemes offer flexibility with no long-term commitment. If you move or decide that the programme no longer suits your needs, you can typically cancel without facing penalties. The only requirement is to provide notice a few months in advance—typically 90 to 180 days—so that your subscription can be properly terminated with your utility provider.
It promotes local energy development and job creation
Investing in community solar isn’t just a step towards a greener future; it’s also a boost to your local economy. By supporting the development of renewable energy sources, community solar initiatives stimulate job growth in this rapidly expanding sector and support the government’s net zero plans. The solar farm you subscribe to is likely located nearby, meaning that the jobs created in developing and maintaining the facility will benefit people in your community. This local focus on clean energy not only reduces our carbon footprint but also fosters economic development close to home.
Tips for selecting the ideal community solar scheme
If you’re fortunate enough to have community solar projects available in your area, choosing the right one can be a bit overwhelming. Here are some key factors to consider when making your decision.
Community solar projects typically operate under two main models:
- Panel Allocation: In this model, you gain access to electricity generated by a specific number of panels within the solar array. Alternatively, you may purchase a set amount of electricity, which will then be credited to your utility account.
- Electricity Subscription: This is the most common model, often referred to as a subscription-based community solar plan. In practice, it’s similar to leasing a solar panel system but without the need to install panels on your property. Instead, you subscribe to the electricity generated by the solar farm at a rate lower than what you would pay your utility. Most programmes cap the amount of electricity you can receive, typically ensuring that it does not exceed 100% of your average monthly usage. This model is convenient and offers guaranteed savings on your electricity bill without the responsibilities of ownership.
For those looking for a more long-term investment, the ownership model offers a compelling option. Similar to purchasing a rooftop solar panel system, this model allows you to own a certain number of panels within the community solar array or a specific share of the project’s total capacity.
Ownership means that the output of these panels will be credited to your electric bill, providing consistent savings over time. However, the number of panels or shares you can purchase is typically limited to meet your annual electricity usage, ensuring that you receive a balanced return on your investment.
By carefully considering these options and understanding the specifics of each model, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your energy needs and financial goals. Community solar programmes offer a flexible and accessible way for more people to tap into the benefits of renewable power, even when their property or circumstances don’t make traditional solar arrays possible. Whether you want to reduce your energy costs or want to make strides in your sustainable journey, community solar is a growing trend that could be a practical solution for the UK moving forward.
