​A government funded scheme is set to bring solar panels to hundreds of homes in Oxfordshire, offering residents an affordable route to sustainable energy. The initiative, which is being supported by £5.3 million from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, is being trialled by Oxfordshire County Council until April, with discussions ongoing to extend it into the next financial year.

Under the scheme, 400 homes will have solar panels installed, with a further 200 properties slated to receive air source heat pumps. Homeowners can benefit from the upgrades by paying a manageable monthly fee of just £40, avoiding the substantial upfront costs that are usually associated with installations of this kind. This approach could save households more than £300 a year, according to the council.

Among the first to participate are residents in Upper Tadmarton, who expressed their enthusiasm for the scheme. For them, the opportunity to switch to renewable energy without facing prohibitive initial expenses has made the technology accessible and practical. In the past, high installation costs and lengthy payback periods have deterred many from investing in solar panels, but this initiative addresses those concerns.

The council has partnered with the Energy Saver App to facilitate registrations for the trial, making it easy for residents to express their interest. The app serves as a convenient platform to connect homeowners with the programme and its benefits.

This trial reflects a growing commitment to reducing carbon emissions and making renewable energy more affordable for everyday households. By providing a cost-effective solution, Oxfordshire County Council hopes to inspire greater adoption of green technologies, contributing to a more sustainable future for the community. If successful, this initiative could serve as a model for similar schemes across the UK.