Community Energy Switching
How to switch to green energy schemes, together
Last updated
How to switch to green energy schemes, together
Last updated
In the UK, communities can switch energy providers collectively through community energy switching schemes. These schemes allow groups of residents or local organizations to come together to negotiate better rates with energy suppliers. By pooling their purchasing power, communities can often secure more favorable deals than individuals could on their own. The process involves organizing a group, comparing offers from different providers, and switching to the one that offers the best combination of price, service, and sustainability.
Here's how it works:
Formation of a Group: A community group, such as a neighborhood association or a local council, forms to explore energy switching options.
Registration: Members of the community register their interest in switching energy providers through the scheme.
Negotiation: The community group negotiates with various energy suppliers on behalf of its members, leveraging the collective size of the group to secure better rates and terms.
Switching: Once a favorable deal is secured, members of the community can choose to switch to the new provider, usually with assistance to make the process seamless.
outlines the process in more detail.
The UK government supports various green energy schemes to help local authorities and communities transition to net zero. Some key programs include:
Local Net Zero Hubs Programme: Supports local authorities in developing and funding net zero projects.
Local Net Zero Accelerator Programme: Provides funding to help local governments attract private investment for green projects.
Community Energy Fund: Offers grants to community groups for developing local renewable energy projects from feasibility to commercialization.
For more detailed information, you can visit the .
(Note that it is likely that these schemes will change under the new Labour government.)
Established in 1999, Good Energy sources 100% renewable electricity. The company buys energy from over 2000 independent generators across the UK, including solar, wind, bioenergy, and hydropower.
Founded in 1995 and known as the world’s first green energy company. They generate renewable electricity from wind and solar and are investing in green gas made from organic materials.
Founded in 2001, Green Energy UK offers 100% green gas and electricity. Electricity is sourced from solar, wind, and hydro; gas from anaerobic digestion of organic materials.
Launched in 2016, Octopus Energy is dedicated to making green energy affordable. They provide 100% renewable electricity from solar, wind, and hydropower, and gas is carbon offset.
Ripple Energy operates on a cooperative model, allowing participants to own a stake in wind farms, with solar farms planned. By purchasing shares, participants invest in 100% renewable electricity which can be offset against bills through other providers like Octopus.
Although aimed at individuals, communities can help by sharing information, making applications and sharing news as the scheme progresses.
Switching energy providers as a community and participating in green energy schemes can provide substantial benefits, including cost savings and reduced environmental impact. By exploring options like the Community Energy Switching Scheme or investing in renewable projects like Ripple, your community can actively support the transition to a more sustainable energy future.
The UK has many energy providers which have 100% green tariffs. provides an overview.