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.
Our Launch Event takes place on 21st January where we’ll be hosting a special screening of POWER STATION, an inspiring new documentary about communities taking control of their energy future.
Tickets are just £5 so book yours now!
Book Tickets
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.
The first workshops will take place at Sonning Common Village Hall on 10th February and 24th March, starting at 6.30pm.
If you live in or near Sonning Common and are interested in exploring solar for your home or community building, register your interest by emailing campaign@cpreoxon.org.uk
🌎 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.
🌿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.
About the Project
Our pilot project is starting in Sonning Common where we’ll be running free workshops to cover the main barriers faced by people wanting to install solar:
Workshop 1: “Is Solar Right for You?” – 10th February 2026, 6.30pm
An interactive session to help residents assess their roof’s solar potential using tools, data, and expert advice.
Workshop 2: “Next Steps – From Quotes to Installation” – 24th March 2026, 6.30pm
Follow-up support for those ready to move forward, covering costs, logistics, funding, and planning guidance.
🤝 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
💡 Get Involved
We currently have plans for a similar project in the Vale of White Horse and are looking to expand to other areas across Oxfordshire. If you’re interested in exploring solar for your home or community building in this or other areas, let us know:
👉 Register your interest: email campaign@cpreoxon.org.uk
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