Homeowners across the West of England are saving money on their energy bills thanks to a competitively priced, group-buying scheme for carbon-cutting solar panels from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority.
‘Solar Together West of England’ enables residents to reduce their bills, while playing their part in slashing emissions in the region at the same time. This scheme allows homeowners to band together to buy solar panels, batteries and EV charging points at a competitive price, supplied and fitted by reputable companies. More than 900 homeowners across the West took up the offer in the first round in 2021, with 842 installing solar panels and 640 adding batteries, making savings of around 18,000 tonnes of CO2 over the 25-year lifespan of the solar panels. Downend residents Anne and Rob Castle had solar panels and batteries fitted through the first phase of Solar Together.
Anne said: “In 1999 when we moved into our home, we went through the process of looking to get a quote for solar panels and at that time the price seemed to be very expensive.
“So, when the invite came through for Solar Together West of England, we decided we would go ahead – to see the options out there. I am so glad we did it – we got the solar panels and batteries at a really good price, and we expect to recoup the costs in less than 10 years.
“We managed to get them before energy prices started shooting up after the Ukraine war – so we really felt like we’d struck it lucky as far cutting costs are concerned.
“The batteries especially have been a gamechanger. Overall, we’ve managed to reduce our energy use from the grid by almost 80% in just two years, which is absolutely brilliant.”
Mrs Castle added that it was “really simple” to apply. “We just had to tick a box saying we wanted to go for it, the information was passed to the fitting company who were excellent and quickly got in touch to arrange a desktop survey. Following the desk top survey until installation, took just three months!
“The great thing about Solar Together West of England is knowing that you’re dealing with reputable fitters who will give you the best possible price they can. "As far as sustainability is concerned, we think all of us owe it to the planet to use less energy - and solar panels are a way to do that. It’s a win win - saving money, and cutting emission to help the planet we live on.”
Mayor Dan Norris, who will check out Anne and Rob's new solar panels, added: “I’m delighted more than 1000 locals like Anne and Rob have had the opportunity to make the switch to clean energy, bring down their bills, and play an important part in cutting harmful carbon emissions in the West. I’m proud of Solar Together West of England – my Mayoral Combined Authority is making the process to get solar panels much easier to navigate, and that’s borne out by all its achieved so far."
“It shows once again that when it comes to the green agenda, the West of England is at the front of the pack – leading by example, and supporting residents to do their bit to help the planet.”
