Rooftop Renewables

Empowering Communities to Go Solar

Rooftop Renewables is a new community-led initiative supported by CPRE Oxfordshire, designed to inspire and enable local people to take climate-positive action through rooftop solar energy.

Kicking off in Sonning Common in early 2026, the project combines education, expert guidance, and community collaboration to make solar power more accessible for homes and community buildings.

About the Project

🌿We want to:

• Inspire local interest in rooftop solar through storytelling, film, and real-life case studies.
• Educate residents and community groups about solar benefits, funding options, and practical steps to installation.
• Identify solar potential on rooftops and provide expert guidance on suitability and costs.
• Support residents through workshops and technical advice to move from idea to installation.
• Create a long-term legacy through a local “Solar Network” of community champions.

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⚙️ How It Works

The project runs over five key phases, each designed to build confidence and action within the community.

Phase 1 – Planning & Engagement (Autumn 2025)

Bringing together local partners to plan and shape the project.

Phase 2 – Launch & Awareness (January 2026)

A public film evening will kickstart the project, inviting local residents, councillors, community group leaders, and schools to attend and register their interest. We’ll also deliver a short guide with FAQs, funding tips, and steps to install.

Phase 3 – Workshop 1: “Is Solar Right for You?” (February 2026)

An interactive session to help residents assess their roof’s solar potential using tools, data, and expert advice.

Phase 4 – Workshop 2: “Next Steps – From Quotes to Installation” (April 2026)

Follow-up support for those ready to move forward, covering costs, logistics, funding, and planning guidance.

Phase 5 – Evaluation & Legacy (Summer 2026)

Celebrating success stories, publishing case studies, and launching a Sonning Common Solar Network to keep the momentum going.

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🤝 Project Partners

This project is a collaborative effort between:

• Sonning Common Parish Council
• EcoSoco
• Oxfordshire County Council
• Renewable Energy Co-operative Ltd
• Cosy Homes Oxfordshire

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🌎 Why Rooftop Renewables Matter

By focusing on rooftop solar first, communities can:

• Cut carbon emissions and energy bills
• Support local climate action
• Protect Oxfordshire’s countryside and Green Belt from unnecessary large-scale solar developments

Rooftop renewables are a practical, community-friendly way to meet our net zero goals while safeguarding the landscapes we love.

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💡 Get Involved

If you live in or near Sonning Common and are interested in exploring solar for your home or community building:

👉 Register your interest: email campaign@cpreoxon.org.uk
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