Who are BHESCo?

Brighton & Hove Energy Services Co-operative (BHESCo) are a social enterprise working to scale up local energy generation and support communities to take more control over their energy supply.  

How does the community energy scheme work? 

BHESCo own and operate the system on behalf of the community to deliver optimum community benefit. It ensures that energy generated is be cheaper than through mainstream energy suppliers. Residents are billed monthly for the solar electricity they use.

What is the cost of electricity be to residents?

BHESCo are working out the economics of a scheme. Through the Preston Park scheme, there will be no upfront cash outlay required from most residents. Some may require planning permission, for example, if the panels are going onto a flat roof.

What if my roof is not suitable for solar panels?

Only residents in the area with suitable roofs have been able to join the scheme. Those taking part have had to switch their energy supplier to Rebel Energy (https://rebelenergy.com/). Participating households must have a smart meter installed.

What would happen to the project if BHESCo folded?

Should the unforeseeable happen and BHESCo goes into liquidation,  BHESCo’s assets would be transferred to another energy co-operative. BHESCo is an active member of Community Energy England, which has more than 310 community energy organisations as members. These assets are likely to have significant value due to the long-term contract periods.

What other community energy projects are BHESCo involved in?

BHESCo are one of the leading community energy groups in the UK, having developed 63 community energy projects which include homes, schools, industrial units, churches, and community and leisure centres. BHESCo are currently working with residents in Ovingdean on a decarbonisation plan, which includes renewable energy generation. Details of other community energy projects can be found here: https://bhesco.co.uk/community-energy-projects-brighton-hove-sussex. MORE

Who is installing and looking after the solar panels?

This is BHESCo’s role. Residents involved have solar panels on their roofs without the responsibility of maintaining and monitoring them. BHESCo will engage a trusted local solar panel company to install the systems.  

What are the benefits to residents?

Being part of the project lowers your electricity bill and massively reduce carbon emissions.  Participating households enjoy long-term (25 year) price security and protection from volatile international energy markets.  

What is the process?

This scheme is currently on hold. BHESCO initially planned to design a scheme to cover a community (roughly 50 houses) and fund the solar panels installed on roofs. The social enterprise owns the infrastructure.

How can residents who already have solar
panels benefit?

Homes that have solar panels should already be receiving income from electricity exported to the grid.  Depending on their contracts, they may be interested in joining BHESCo’s solar community.  This can be discussed with BHESCo if they are interested.