Council collaboration wins Green Expo award for innovation in energy

6 December 2023

A collaboration between Cheshire councils called ‘Solar Together’ has won a Green Expo Award for Innovation in Energy. 

Solar Together is an initiative across the county aimed at supporting UK residential customers in the installation of solar panels. The award recognises the contribution being made in the region to promote sustainable energy solutions.

The partnership with Cheshire East, Cheshire West, and Warrington Borough Councils, means residents can now easily transition to a renewable solar energy source. This partnership represents a shared commitment to both environmental responsibility and community empowerment, demonstrating the power of collaboration in driving positive change.

The first Solar Together scheme in Cheshire and Warrington saw an overwhelming response, with more than 6,000 registrations from local residents keen to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in their homes – a figure that demonstrates the community's growing interest in renewable energy and sustainable living practices.

Councillor Mick Warren, chair of Cheshire East Council’s environment and communities committee, said: “It’s been so positive to see so many residents in Cheshire East showing an interest in going solar through this initiative and I hope that many of them will go on to install solar in their homes.

“The switch to solar power is just one of the ways that collectively we can help to realise our boroughwide target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045. This award is both a very positive step in that respect and recognition of our overall commitment as a borough to realise this target.”

Cheshire East Council benefits from building-mounted solar PV installations across 17 locations where the combined solar output of 1.2 million kilowatt hours (kWh) per year represents 11 per cent of the council’s annual electricity use in its corporate buildings. Self-generation from solar PV gives the council financial savings by displacing grid electricity as well as the necessary carbon savings to help its reach net zero targets.

The Green Expo Award for Innovation in Energy is not only a testament to Solar Together Cheshire & Warrington's innovation and dedication but also reflects the broader community's support and enthusiasm for green energy initiatives.

As a pioneer in innovative energy solutions, Solar Together remains steadfast in its mission to make solar installations more accessible for all.

For more information about Solar Together and its initiatives, please visit: https://solartogether.co.uk