The innovative scheme builds on four years of highly successful Solar Together programmes run across the UK, delivering more than 7,000 installations and over 130,000 tonnes of avoided lifetime carbon emissions.
From today, East Herts residents can join the group-buying scheme which offers solar panels with optional battery storage and EV charge points, as well as retrofit battery storage for residents who have already invested in solar panels and are looking to get more from the renewable energy they generate.
It is free to register and there is no obligation to go ahead with an installation. East Herts Council is working in partnership with the Hertfordshire Climate Change and Sustainability Partnership (HCCSP) and independent experts iChoosr, to make the transition to clean energy as cost effective and hassle-free as possible.
How does it work?
- Householders can register online to become part of the group for free and without obligation.
- Pre-approved UK solar PV suppliers participate in an auction on 27 September. They are able to offer competitive pricing as the volume and geographic concentration makes it possible for them to realise greater efficiencies, which they pass on with lower prices for installations.
- After the auction, registered households will be emailed a personal recommendation which is specific to the details they submitted in their registration.
- If they choose to accept their recommendation, the specifics of their installation will be confirmed with a technical survey after which a date can be set for the installation of their solar PV system.
- Telephone and email helpdesks are on-hand throughout the whole process which, together with information sessions, will allow households to make an informed decision in a safe and hassle-free environment.
Cllr Graham McAndrew, Executive Member for Environmental Sustainability and chair of HCCSP, says: “We know residents care about the environment and want to make the right choices to cut carbon emissions and lower their energy bills. However, these choices can be made more overwhelming by the wealth of information available, making it harder for people to decide the best way forward. That is why we’re proud to be partnering with iChoosr to launch this scheme locally, to help everyone get a better deal by grouping together and give residents access to high-quality solar PV and battery storage.”
Marie-Louise Abretti, iChoosr UK Solar Manager added “With energy prices continuing to increase, residents of East Herts 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.”
