Solar panel subscriptions for households under trial scheme

HOUSEHOLDS could install solar panels on a subscription model as part of a trial backed by the Government

to encourage the uptake of green technology.

Twelve projects intended to cut energy bills will receive a share of £16million government funding to roll out pilot schemes. Among them is Sunsave,

a London-based company, that will receive £2 million funding towards a scheme offering households solar panels for a monthly payment, similar to a mobile phone, rather than an upfront sum. High upfront costs have proven to be a significant barrier to the uptake of residential solar, with only 3 per cent of British homes having panels installed, despite the potential savings.

Solar panel installations cost around £7,000 on average, with a saving of between £160 and £420 off bills and allow households to sell up to £145 worth of electricity back to the grid, according to estimates from the Energy Savings Trust.

This means it can take 15 to 20 years before households actually start saving money from their solar panels. Sue

Davies, Which? head of consumer protection policy, said: “It’s good that new projects are being launched in an attempt to help households reduce costs and receive better support and advice.

“However, more needs to be done to improve affordability and the availability of quality advice and support as well as access to trustworthy installers.”

Sunsave estimates it can save customers about £45 a month, based on its subscription of £69 a month for the solar panels and a battery, including installation and maintenance.