UK community solar outfit Big Solar Co-op seeks to raise GBP 1.2m

The Big Solar Co-op, a new UK community solar business, today launched its first share offer to the public, seeking to raise GBP 1.2 million (USD 2.16m/EUR 2.13m) to build initial three solar systems and continue pipeline development.

The new entity, incubated by non-for-profit community renewables organisation Sharenergy, says it is looking to bring rooftop solar to community and commercial buildings across the UK, targeting 100 MW by 2030.

Its model involves centralising processes such as feasibility studies, solar array designs and legal agreements.

“Setting up the Big Solar Co-op to work on a national scale is creating new opportunities for organisations wanting solar roofs, for investors and for volunteers. By pooling our resources and taking a portfolio approach to developments, we are spreading risk and making solar rooftops viable even in the absence of government subsidy,” explained co-founder Jon Halle.

The first three projects will be in the Midlands. They include a 300-kWp system on a food-processing plant in Tenbury Wells, a 120-kWp array on a farm machinery manufacturer in Ludlow and 30-kWp installation on a doctors’ surgery in Birmingham, which will also include electric vehicle charging.

(GBP 1 = USD 1.202/EUR 1.182)

Choose your newsletter by Renewables Now. Join for free!