As the UN calls for 'immediate, rapid and large-scale reductions in greenhouse gas emissions', residents across Bath and North East Somerset will get their chance to save money on their energy bills, and play their part in cutting carbon emissions.

It is all thanks to a new scheme being launched by the West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris, today (Monday 23 August).

By banding together, residents will be able to get cheaper deals to install solar panels and set up a battery storage system at their home, as part of 'Solar Together West of England'.

West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: "Many residents know solar panels have the potential to save them money on their energy bills and cut carbon, but sometimes there's a fear that the whole process can be daunting and confusing which can put people off.

"This new scheme will make the process easier. It means Bath and North East Somerset residents can generate their own clean electricity, save money on their energy bills, and play an important part in our collective efforts to cut harmful carbon emissions and reach our ambitious net zero targets."

Homeowners across Bath and North East Somerset can register to take part by clicking HERE : the Solar Together site

People who already have solar panels installed can also register to have battery storage added to their existing solar panels to maximise the benefits of their system.

Solar Together West of England follows other successful schemes across the country, which have delivered more than 3,700 installations and 61,000 tonnes of avoided lifetime carbon emissions.

iChoosr UK (Solar Together) Business Manager, Marie-Louise Abretti, said: "With West of England residents looking for opportunities to reduce their carbon emissions and save on energy bills, the Solar Together group-buying scheme offers a straightforward way to make an informed decision and access a competitive offer from a trusted provider."

Councillor Sarah Warren, Bath & North East Somerset Council's deputy leader, Climate Emergency and Sustainable Travel, said: "Bath and North East Somerset has declared a climate emergency and has committed to providing the leadership for the district to be carbon neutral by 2030. One of the key priorities to achieve this is a rapid and large-scale increase in local renewable energy generation.

"This scheme makes it easier for home owners across B&NES to make the switch to renewable energy and reduce their energy bills and I would encourage residents to sign up."