Any upfront payment will be given in credit off your first three bills.
Can I join if the bill isn’t in my name? Can I sign up in joint names?
The co-op member’s name must match the name on the electricity bill. If multiple people are listed on the bill, one of them must be the member. Joint membership is not available.
Costs & Savings
Is the electricity free?
No, electricity from a renewable energy project isn’t free, but it’s typically much cheaper than standard rates. You’ll still pay operating costs, grid charges, taxes, and other fees associated with your tariff. Estimated costs and savings vary by project and will be detailed in the share offer document.
How much can I save?
Savings depend on future electricity prices. Higher prices mean greater potential savings and a shorter payback period. Lower prices mean smaller savings (but also lower bills). Be aware that if prices drop significantly, you may not recover the upfront cost over time.
Electricty Consumption
I don’t know my annual consumption. How can I estimate it?
Your annual usage is listed on your electricity bill’s yearly statement.
Excess Generation
What if my shares generate more electricity than I use?
You still receive savings based on your share’s total generation, even if you use less. The extra savings are applied to your bill—you don’t lose them.
Smart Meters
Do I need a Smart Meter?
No, but some electricity suppliers may offer you one when you switch.
When will the project start?
Projects our ongoing so it could vary.
Moving Home
What happens if I move?
Notify your supplier, and your savings will transfer to your new home. Update your account details in your member dashboard if your supplier or account number changes.
Additional Costs
Are there extra fees later, like operating costs?
No, once you’ve purchased shares, you won’t owe additional payments. Operating costs are deducted before calculating your savings. Decommissioning costs are accounted for over the project’s lifespan.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
What if I have an EV?
Your EV can be powered by your share of renewable energy. Consider switching to a variable tariff with lower nighttime rates for additional savings.
Gas Supply
What about my gas bill?
Your renewable energy ownership only affects electricity costs. Gas supply remains separate.
How It Works
How does the process work?
Buy shares in a cooperative that owns a renewable energy project.
The project is built and managed for you.
Switch to a compatible electricity supplier before generation begins.
Savings are applied monthly to your bill based on your share’s generation.
Price Protection
Does this protect me from high energy prices?
Savings are based on the difference between market prices and the project’s operating costs. Higher market prices mean greater savings.
Priority Access
What is Priority Access?
Priority Access grants early notification and exclusive purchase rights for new projects. The fee is redeemable against your first share purchase. If unused within five years, it’s donated to a community fund.
How much does it cost per unit?
The fee is £25 for residential users per unit (may vary for businesses).
Ownership Limits
Can I buy more shares than I need?
You can own up to 120% of your estimated consumption. Excess generation still earns savings, but your bill won’t drop below zero due to fixed grid charges and taxes.
Swiching Suppliers
What if I’m in a fixed-term contract?
Savings can be held for up to three months until you switch. Update your supplier details in your dashboard once you’ve switched.
Home Solar Panels
Should I join if I already have solar panels?
Yes, your cooperative savings are separate and will add to your existing solar benefits.
Solar Costs
Which is more cost-effective?
Wind farms typically generate more electricity per watt than solar, so you may need fewer shares for the same output. However, solar projects often have lower upfront costs and longer lifespans.
Payment Options
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes, but instalment plans may include a slightly higher fee than a one-time payment. Defaulting on payments may limit future participation.
Inheritance & Transfers
Can I transfer my shares?
Shares cannot be transferred except in cases of inheritance, where they may qualify for tax relief.
Leaving the Co-op
Can I withdraw my shares?
Yes, but only after the project has operated for at least two years. The refund amount depends on how long you’ve been a member.
Fraud Awareness
Beware of unsolicited calls or scams.
Legitimate cooperatives will never cold-call you. Report suspicious activity to the proper authorities.
