Two weeks left to claim your affordable solar panels

There are just 2 weeks left for Dorset residents to register their interest in an affordable solar panel project.

Installing solar panels and battery storage is a smart investment, offering long-term savings on energy bills while generating clean, renewable electricity.

However, solar panels can be expensive upfront. Fortunately, Dorset residents have a new way to keep costs down.

Dorset Council has teamed up with Solar Together, which helps homeowners to ‘group buy’ with fellow residents in their local area. This sees pre-approved and accredited installers bid to carry out the work.

After bidding, only the most competitive pricing will be recommended to you. And the more residents involved in your area, the lower the cost. There is also no obligation to go ahead with purchasing.

As well as solar panels, you can consider having charge points and battery storage. This includes retrofitting battery storage for residents who already have solar panels.

Cllr Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council and Cabinet Member for Climate said:

“We’ve had a great response to this initiative, with more than 1,100 households registering their interest so far. With energy prices rising again from 1 October, now really could be the right time to check whether you can take advantage of this deal.  

“Investing in renewable energy increases independence from the national grid. It’s also proven to save money over time, and of course, benefit the environment, all part of our commitment to become carbon neutral by 2040.”

More information about how Solar Together makes solar a viable energy source for Dorset residents, and how to register, is available at dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/solar-together-dorset.

To register for the scheme, residents must either own their own house or have permission from the landlord to install solar panels.  

Small and medium-sized enterprises and commonhold associations meeting this requirement can also participate.

Registration is open until 17 October.