Power to the People: The Rise of UK Community Solar

As the UK accelerates its move towards net-zero, ensuring reasonable localised access to renewable energy is critical. Community solar projects are playing a key role in addressing this challenge by offering clean energy solutions to households, schools and businesses that might otherwise be excluded from the solar energy market.

Community solar enables multiple users to benefit from a single solar array, usually installed off-site. Participants receive credits (or reductions) on their energy bills based on their share of the electricity generated. This model is particularly effective for people living in flats, social housing tenants, or those unable to afford private rooftop installations.

Figure 1: Ed Miliband & Bridget Phillipson view school solar panels. [4]

The UK Context

In the UK, the community energy sector is gaining momentum, supported by local councils and social enterprises. According to Community Energy England, there were over 300 community energy organisations operating in 2023, with solar PV being the most common source. Although growth has slowed in recent years due to changes in government support, the potential remains significant, especially with new funding and policy under consideration.

Notable UK-based Projects Include:

• South East London Community Energy (SELCE): A solar co-op installing PV panels on schools and community buildings across Lewisham and Greenwich.
• Egni Co-op (Wales): Operates one of the largest rooftop solar arrays in the UK, powering schools and community centres.
• Brighton Energy Co-op: Invests in large-scale solar on public buildings and invites local residents to become shareholders.

These initiatives not only cut carbon emissions but also reinvest profits into education, fuel poverty reduction, and local economic development.

Benefits of Community Solar in the UK

• Lower energy bills for participants.
• Increased local control over energy generation and usage.
• Strengthened energy security and resilience.
• Educational and economic opportunities through local engagement.
• Contribution to local authority net-zero goals.

Despite these benefits, there are still barriers in place. The end of the Feed-in Tariff in 2019 reduced the financial attractiveness of new projects. Grid access and financing also pose ongoing challenges. However, upcoming improvements, such as proposals to allow community energy groups to sell electricity directly to local people, could strengthen the sector.

In conclusion, community solar offers a powerful model for an inclusive energy transition. With the right regulatory support, it could form a key pillar of the UK’s sustainable energy future.

About Pager Power

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References

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