Solar Blog

The Cornish town of Wadebridge looks set to become the first in Britain to be harnessing the full potential of solar power installations.

The region has set out ambitions plans that will see 33% or more of its total electricity consumption through renewable sources. With production on this scale in excess of 15,000MWh per annum, the savings to homes, businesses and schools will be huge.

As the cost of fossil fuel rises, the incentive is clear. Greener living is major draw too, but of greater benefit will be the potential to unlock thousands in cash, through the government’s feed in tariff (FIT) scheme.

The move is driven by the Wadebridge Renewable Energy Network (WREN) who, as a not for profit organisation, plan to use the income to fund community projects. With residents joining the scheme integral in the decision making process, the money is likely to be well controlled and directed.

With the launch of their ‘Solar Club’ initiative too, the organisation is helping people install the solar panels at very competitive rates. Those unable to afford installation may also join the scheme, with any income generated going to an ethical bank fund that will pay the initial costs.

Ten systems have already been installed, which marks just 10% of the expected total. However, with the FIT scheme being limited for projects over 50kWp, the full plans are likely to be curtailed somewhat.

Such restrictions on community projects could influence a rethink from the government, which would be welcome by green investors and solar panel companies throughout the country. Whatever the future though, it looks bright in this part of Cornwall.