Can I use community solar alongside my existing energy supplier?

Yes, as a UK homeowner or small business owner, you can use community solar alongside your existing energy supplier. Community solar programs allow you to benefit from solar energy generated in a community-owned or shared solar project, without needing to install solar panels on your own property. These programs work alongside your current energy arrangement, providing you with clean energy and possibly reducing your electricity bills.

How community solar works with your current energy supplier

Community solar projects generate solar power from installations typically on rooftops of schools, care homes, or community buildings. The energy produced is fed into the national grid, and members of the community subscribe to or invest in the project to receive a share of the solar energy benefits. You continue to get your energy supply and billing through your existing supplier, but some energy consumed can be offset by the solar power produced in the project you are part of.

For example, in the UK, community solar initiatives have seen co-operatives like Brixton Energy partner with energy suppliers such as EDF to give residents a direct allocation of solar power generated locally. This allows households to benefit from lower bills by using solar energy credits against their electricity consumption, while still receiving any additional energy from their usual supplier. Some trials have shown savings of around £8 per month on electricity bills through this setup.

Benefits of using community solar alongside your current supplier

• No need for personal solar installation: You don't have to install panels yourself; the community project handles installation and maintenance.
• Supports the local community: Community solar projects are often democratically owned, with profits reinvested locally, benefiting social and environmental initiatives.
• Saves money on energy bills: Receiving credits or allocations of solar power can reduce your total electricity costs.
• Access to renewable energy: You contribute to cleaner energy generation without changing your energy supplier or system.
• Flexibility: You can retain your current energy contract and supplier, simplifying administration.

Considerations and common mistakes

• Check supplier compatibility: Not all energy suppliers may support community solar arrangements or crediting mechanisms. It is important to verify if your supplier participates in such schemes.
• Understand billing and credits: Some community solar schemes provide financial savings through credits on bills, while others offer dividends from your investment. Clarify how you benefit.
• Beware of contractual commitments: Some community energy co-operatives may have membership fees or require a minimum commitment.
• Don’t expect full offset: Community solar typically offsets only part of your electricity usage. You still rely on your main supplier for additional energy needs.
• Evaluate project transparency: Ensure the community solar project has clear governance, financial reporting, and a track record.

Real-world examples in the UK

• Joju Solar has installed around 10% of the UK's community solar capacity, focusing on rooftop projects across hundreds of sites. They work closely with community groups to ensure local involvement and benefit.
• Brixton Energy Solar Co-operative partnered with EDF to run a trial where local households received solar energy allocation plus battery storage, reducing bills while supporting the grid.
• Bloom Renewables supports community solar projects powering schools, care homes, and village halls, enabling local communities to access affordable clean energy.

Recent UK developments

• As of 2024, the UK has over 155 MW of community solar capacity, with ongoing growth in rooftop solar projects.
• The UK Government’s clean energy policies encourage community energy initiatives, with new models emerging that integrate battery storage and flexible energy management.
• Some energy suppliers, including major players like Octopus Energy, focus on renewable energy supply and encourage customer participation in green energy schemes.

Practical advice for UK homeowners and small businesses

• Research local community solar projects: Look for initiatives in your area where you can join as a member or subscriber.
• Contact your current energy supplier: Ask if they support community solar credits or similar arrangements.
• Compare costs and savings: Look at what membership or subscription fees you might pay, and how much you can save on your bills.
• Understand the contract terms: Know your rights and how you can exit the program if needed.
• Consider investing or volunteering: Community solar often welcomes local involvement, which can increase your benefits and strengthen the project.

Using community solar alongside your existing energy supplier is a practical and increasingly popular way to access renewable energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and support local green initiatives without changing your supplier or installing your own solar panels.