Last Friday, a 100% community owned solar project went into operation on the roof of a housing estate in the UK. Called Brixton Energy Solar 1, it became the UK’s first inner city solar power project.
Located on the roof of the Loughborough Estate in Brixton, the project was funded entirely by the community share issue. As of now, the project pumps out 37kWp.
While the system will certainly put a dent in the area’s carbon footprint, the residents also enjoy a small additional revenue source through a tax incentive. By feeding into the grid, investors are entitled to a portion of the profits. Investors stand to get a 3% return annually. The remaining money generated will be put into a community pot called Community Energy Efficiency Fund, which will help fund energy-saving improvements and education in the Brixton area.
“It’s great to see the ‘Solar 1’ project go live, following so much local support; we’re hoping it will be a template and pioneering community project to inspire other urban initiatives across the capital. We want ‘Solar 1’ to help people recognize how beneficial owning their own energy can be,” founding member and Director of Brixton Energy Agamemnon Otero stated.
Brixton Energy Group is made up of volunteers from all walks of life, donating their time and expertise.
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