An initiative in Hertfordshire helped more than 400 households in North Herts get an average discount of 22% on 14-panel solar systems.
The Solar Together Hertfordshire initiative offers solar panels with optional battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargepoints, as well as retrofit battery storage for residents that have already invested in solar panels.
A key aspect of the initiative is that it allows households in Hertfordshire to register their interest with no obligation. Pre-approved solar PV suppliers will then participate in an auction, offering competitive pricing as the volume and geographic concentration makes it possible for them to realise greater efficiencies.
Following the auction, registered households will receive a personal recommendation that is specific to the details submitted in their registration. If they choose to accept this recommendation, the specifics of their installation will be confirmed with a technical survey after which a date will be set for installation.
Councillor Steve Jarvis, executive member for Environment and Leisure at Hertfordshire Council, said: “This is an innovative scheme offering residents a competitive price when it comes to investing in solar power – the more people who join the scheme at one time the cheaper it will be.
“It is difficult to give a ballpark figure of what the cost might be, as there are so many variables to consider, but you will get an estimate cost if you register your interest. We know the scheme gives savings of between 20 and 35%, as opposed to households going direct to suppliers themselves – last year the scheme gave residents a 22% discount. It is free for any household to register and there is absolutely no obligation to go ahead if you don’t want to.”