The Solar Together Bedfordshire scheme has “exceeded expectations” in Bedford borough, with nearly four times the expected installations planned.
The Bedfordshire version of the scheme was launched by Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire and Luton Councils in May.
The aim was to encourage residents to come together for a group-buying scheme for solar panels and battery storage.
Paul Pace, chief officer environment, told the Climate Change Committee yesterday (Monday, 3 October) that it was estimated that Bedford borough would have 98 installations.
“We now have in the region of 386 people who have accepted the work to go ahead,” he said.
“Overall the scheme has gone from strength to strength, it’s certainly exceeded our expectations.
“[We] would like to see possibly another one in the future,” he said.
Councillor Sue Oliver (Labour, Kempston North) asked if it was known when another scheme would be run.
“Obviously, they’re going to have their hands full for the time being,” she said.
Mr Pace said: “I don’t think there is capacity in the marketplace at the moment to do anything this side of March.
“We obviously want to go out there with the best opportunity for residents to get a good deal from the marketplace.”
Councillor Lucy Bywater (Green, Castle) asked: “I wondered if there’s future scope for some other kind of bulk buying, like external wall insulation or even heat pumps.
“Whether that could be a future project to make it more affordable for more people,” she said.
Committee chair, mayor Dave Hodgson said: “This [Solar Together] is a scheme whereby we piggy-backed onto a national scheme.
“I think there are other schemes around which actually do [what you suggested], if you know of any please let us know.”
by John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
