What Is the Cambridgeshire Solar Panel Scheme?

The Cambridgeshire Solar Panel Scheme refers to Solar Together Cambridgeshire, a council-supported group-buying initiative that helps residents and small businesses install solar panels and battery storage at competitive prices.

Delivered in partnership with Cambridgeshire County Council and independent provider iChoosr, the scheme is designed to make renewable energy more affordable, accessible, and straightforward for homeowners across the region.

In this article, we explain how the scheme works, who can take part, what benefits it offers, and how Cambridgeshire residents can register to receive a personalised quote without any obligation to proceed.

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Key Takeaways

• Participants can save up to 25% on solar PV installation costs compared to typical market prices.
• All installations are completed by vetted, MCS-certified installers to guarantee quality and reliability.
• The scheme has already supported thousands of installations across Cambridgeshire, cutting both costs and carbon emissions.
• It is open to homeowners, landlords, small businesses, and community groups throughout the county.

What Is Solar Together Cambridgeshire?

Solar Together Cambridgeshire is part of the national Solar Together initiative that has been rolled out across multiple UK regions. The programme uses a group-buying model to reduce the cost of solar and battery systems for local households and small businesses.

By combining the purchasing power of residents, the scheme secures lower prices through a reverse auction, where pre-approved, MCS-certified installers compete to offer the best group rate. Participants then receive a personalised quote tailored to their roof size, orientation, and energy needs with no obligation to proceed.

Since launching, Solar Together has helped residents across the UK install over 32,000 solar panels, supporting the county’s commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Eligibility Criteria

The scheme is open to a wide range of property owners and organisations across Cambridgeshire. To participate in Solar Together Cambridgeshire, you must meet the following conditions:

• You must live in one of the participating council areas within Cambridgeshire.
• You must own your home, or have explicit permission from your landlord or freeholder to install a solar PV system.
• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Commonhold Associations that meet the ownership requirement are also eligible.
• Both residential and qualifying non-domestic buildings may apply.
• Registration is free and comes with no obligation to proceed after receiving your quote.

How the Scheme Works

The Solar Together scheme is designed to make going solar simple, transparent, and affordable. Each step is guided by expert oversight and supported by professional installers.

1. Free Registration

Start by registering your interest online. You will be asked a few basic questions about your roof, electricity use, or existing solar setup. Registration is completely free and does not commit you to purchase.

2. Reverse Auction

Pre-vetted, MCS-certified installers compete in a reverse auction to offer the lowest possible price. The installer who submits the most competitive bid is selected, and their offer becomes the group rate available to all participants.

3. Personal Recommendation

After the auction, you will receive a personalised recommendation based on your home’s energy needs and roof suitability. This includes the installer’s details, your estimated system size, costs, and potential savings.

4. Decision and Deposit

You then decide whether to accept the offer. If you choose to proceed, a £150 deposit is required to confirm your place. This deposit is conditionally refundable. Helpdesk support and a webinar with the winning installer are available to help you make an informed decision.

5. Technical Survey and Installation

Once you accept, the installer will carry out a technical survey to confirm the final system design. Your Cambridgeshire solar panel installation is then scheduled and completed by the approved supplier in line with MCS quality standards.

Why Take Part: Key Advantages of Solar Together Cambridgeshire

Installing solar panels in Cambridgeshire can feel like a complicated and costly decision, but Solar Together Cambridgeshire removes the guesswork. This council-supported group-buying scheme offers residents a straightforward, cost-effective way to improve their home’s energy efficiency while reducing long-term bills. Whether you're new to solar or looking to expand with battery storage, the scheme provides clear, measurable benefits.

Lower Installation Costs

Group purchasing unlocks prices typically reserved for large-scale commercial projects. In previous rounds of the scheme, participating households have saved between 10% and 25% on installation costs compared to standard market rates.

After the solar panels are installed, ongoing savings continue through reduced electricity bills and potential earnings from the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which pays for excess energy sent back to the grid.

Trusted Installers and High-Quality Equipment

All solar installations are completed by fully vetted, MCS-certified installers. These suppliers have been carefully selected through a competitive process overseen by Cambridgeshire District Council and iChoosr. Every installation meets strict national standards for safety, quality, and long-term performance.

This assurance helps homeowners invest with confidence, knowing their system is professionally installed and built to last.

Reduced Environmental Impact

Solar Together Cambridgeshire supports the county’s broader sustainability goals. Every system installed through the scheme reduces carbon emissions and helps cut reliance on fossil fuels. Over time, the combined impact of local installations contributes meaningfully to Cambridgeshire’s path toward net-zero.

Battery Storage and Greater Energy Independence

Homeowners can choose to pair their solar panels with battery storage to increase self-sufficiency. Stored solar energy can be used in the evening or during periods of peak pricing, which lowers grid usage and improves household energy efficiency.

For even greater control, systems can integrate with smart energy platforms such as Upvolt’s Skygate™. These platforms manage when to store, use, or export energy to maximise savings automatically.

Upvolt Solar Installations Across Cambridgeshire and Nearby Counties

If you’ve missed the Solar Together Cambridgeshire registration window or your property isn’t covered by the scheme, you can still go solar confidently with Upvolt.

Upvolt is a trusted solar energy installer serving homes and small businesses across Cambridgeshire, offering competitive prices, MCS-certified installations, and premium solar technology. Each system is designed to suit your property, combining high-efficiency panels, long-life LFP batteries, and smart energy management through Skygateâ„¢.

From Cambridge and Ely to Huntingdon, St Neots, and Peterborough, our local teams deliver reliable installations with full aftercare and support. Upvolt also operates across nearby counties like Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk, giving homeowners throughout the East of England access to professional, great-value solar solutions.

Let's Recap

Solar Together Cambridgeshire offers a straightforward, cost-effective way to install solar panels and battery storage with the support of your local council. By joining the scheme, you benefit from competitive pricing, trusted installers, and a clear, step-by-step process that removes the complexity often associated with solar installation.

Whether you’re new to solar or looking to expand your system with battery storage, this initiative gives you access to verified installers, quality equipment, and personalised quotes. You can also future-proof your home by choosing energy storage options that reduce grid dependence and increase your energy efficiency.

If your goal is to cut your electricity bills, reduce your carbon footprint, or gain more control over your energy use, Solar Together Cambridgeshire is a strong option to consider.

About Upvolt

At Upvolt, we help Cambridgeshire homeowners take full control of their energy future. Our systems feature high-efficiency panels with up to 23.6% efficiency, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries with up to 15 years of warranty, and seamless integration with our intelligent Skygateâ„¢ platform.

Ready to see how solar could work for your home? Request a free consultation today and discover how Upvolt can help you save on bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and gain long-term energy independence.

FAQ

What is Solar Together Cambridgeshire?

Solar Together Cambridgeshire is a council-supported group-buying scheme that helps homeowners and small businesses install solar panels and battery storage at competitive prices. The scheme works by using collective purchasing power to secure lower rates from trusted, MCS-certified installers.

How much can I save under the scheme?

Participants have reported savings of up to 25% on the cost of solar panel installations compared to standard market rates. In addition to the initial discount, you can also reduce your energy bills and earn money by exporting excess electricity through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).

How do I apply for Solar Together Cambridgeshire?

You can register your interest online through the official Solar Together website. The registration process is free and requires basic details about your home, energy usage, and roof suitability. After registration, you’ll receive a personalised quote with no obligation to proceed.

Are solar panels worth the investment in Cambridgeshire?

Yes. Solar panels have clear advantages for your household. They can significantly reduce your energy bills, increase your home's energy efficiency, and protect you from rising grid costs. When paired with battery storage, the benefits increase even further by allowing you to use more of your own solar energy.

Do I need planning permission for a solar panel installation on my Cambridgeshire property?

Most domestic solar panel systems fall under permitted development rights, meaning they do not require planning permission. However, if your property is listed or located in a conservation area, it’s best to check with your local planning authority before proceeding.

Alex Lomax

CEO & Co-Founder

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