The investment is aimed at reducing carbon emissions by working towards a goal of 100MW of solar panels on commercial and community buildings by 2030.
The project, which is backed by investment from Resonance Community Developers (RCD), is driving the transition to clean energy, cutting nearly 40,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually whilst helping to power a more sustainable future.
Tom Crook, Investment Manager at Bristol-based Resonance, said: “I’m really excited to be supporting Big Solar Co-op and the incredible work it does. The commitment to creating real social and environmental impact is something we truly believe in, and we are proud that this investment will help it grow and make an even bigger difference. We look forward to seeing the positive change it creates.”
With energy costs dominating the news, businesses across the UK continue to face ongoing uncertainty.
Unlike households, companies are not protected by a price cap, meaning they remain vulnerable to market fluctuations with no government support. While energy rates have fallen from previous peaks, they are still unpredictable, leaving firms exposed to sudden increases.
In this environment, finding cost-saving solutions is crucial. Investing in on-site renewable energy, such as solar panels, can help businesses reduce reliance on volatile grid electricity, lower long-term costs, and enhance sustainability [1].
Rooftop solar installations on commercial and community buildings can significantly reduce electricity costs by generating clean, on-site energy.
Unlike residential homes with pitched roofs, businesses and schools typically have large, flat roofs that are ideal for solar panels, providing ample unshaded space for optimal efficiency [2].
Typically, 50kW system, for example, could save businesses over £10,561 annually [3]. Solar power also offers energy independence, the potential to sell excess energy, and enhances a company’s eco-friendly reputation.
Jon Hallè, CEO at Big Solar Co-op, commented: “The loan from Resonance will enable us to build new solar on the rooftops of buildings across the UK, from schools and leisure facilities to factories and supermarkets.
“All of these new solar installations are co-owned by our members on a non-profit basis - we have over 650 members and more are joining us every day. With the support from Resonance, we will be able to build new solar installations at the rate of one per month in the first half of 2025.”
He concluded: “Together they will generate enough electricity to reduce UK carbon emissions by around 350 tonnes a year - that's enough energy to drive an electric car over 2 million miles.”
Resonance Community Developers is a social investment fund designed to support and invest in communities to create and own assets that meet local needs and help to build cohesion by investing in community-led affordable homes or facilities that benefit the whole community.
Including this investment, it has committed approximately £10m so far into around 30 community groups across ten English regions.