The Energise Barnsley scheme is the biggest community energy project involving roof-based solar panels in the UK and will raise funds to help community groups.
Local residents will be able to invest in the scheme through a community share offer, which is expected to give an annual return of 5 per cent. Ignite, a social investment fund, has committed £2 million to Energise Barnsley in support of the community share offer.
The £16 million capital costs will be met by project partners – Berneslai Homes, British Gas and Generation Community – and any surplus income the project generates be used to support community projects in the local area.
British Gas director of energy construction services Mike Chessum: “We’re very pleased to be working alongside our partners to help develop and deliver this ground-breaking project in Barnsley.
“We’re committed to supporting the growth of community energy and believe it can bring so many benefits – not just clean renewable energy, but also clear social and economic benefits such as new jobs and help for those in vulnerable circumstances.”
Leader of Barnsley Council Steve Houghton added: “We are pleased to have such a significant investment happening in Barnsley and we are incredibly grateful to our partners for bringing Energise Barnsley to life.
“Energise Barnsley will have a big impact on our local communities. Cheaper energy will mean reduced bills and the surplus money generated will allow local groups to access a Community Cash Fund to support community projects in the local area.“