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Bulk Discount Solar Scheme

Date started: 
1 April 2010
Public Launch date: 
1 May 2010
Number of People Involved: 
2
Geographic region : 
Scotland
Geographic region : 
United Kingdom
Last updated: Tuesday, 10 January 2012
Related initiatives: 
West Kilbride
Related Transition Stage: 
Deepening

Website

http://www.transitionlinlithgow.org.uk

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Project Aim

To provide a mechanism to offer high quality solar panels at discounted rates to the local community and to form a model which can be offered to other communities.

Further details

 To research the market and identify high quality, ethically manufactured Solar Thermal and Solar PV panels. To then negotiate contract terms for a community project, identify suitable certified installers and support the local community to help them in the transition to using more solar energy. 

Inspiration

Solar seemed the right technology that could be quickly implemented with no major complications. Permitted Development Rights and FIT's seemed attractive motivators.

Outcomes so far

130 STH panels fitted 123 PV panels fitted ( 667kWp - 226tonnes CO2/pa ) Several homes opting for both. A local Agricultural College engaged with us and subsequently fitted several STH & PV panels to tied accommodation and 2x 50kW PV arrays.

Unexpected outcomes

Ripple effect. Once a few are installed, this sparks interest in neighbouring areas. Good support from local authority, even for conservation areas and listed buildings. Local Authority employee discount scheme now setup. Some participants also wish to try other action, like our food co-op, or newsletter subscription service.

Obstacles, and how we overcame them

 Narrowing the field of products. Some manufactured with lack of respect for local environment. Pollution, working conditions etc. This took a lot of research to find good manufacturers.

Looking for local suppliers, and selecting installers with good credit ratings, experience and capacity to cope with growth and scale of demand on equipment and staff.

 

 

Lessons Learned

It's important to learn to say no. Not every home/roof is suitable, and you need to be honest. Equally, expect the un-expected, be that weather delays, low pressure shower pumps or bad previous plumbing when installing pressurised STH tank. Roof access, space for scaffolding, etc. Pioneers need to lead by example.

Sources of Funding

Staff funding to set up the scheme from Scottish Government - Climate Challenge Fund

Contacts

Primary point of contact: 
Alan Brown
Media point of contact: 
Alan Brown
Themes: 
Energy

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