We’re hopping about with excitement that we can finally unveil our latest project – a massive 1MW solar array on the new Bottle Yard film studios.

With over 2000 solar panels, it’s going to be our largest rooftop solar scheme yet, and quite possibly the UK’s largest community-owned solar rooftop!

The Bottle Yard Studios in Whitchurch is known for producing hit series such as The Outlaws, Chloe and Show Trial. It has become so popular with filmmakers that it will shortly open a second state-of-the-art facility – named TBY2 – half a mile from the main site.

The original plan was to install a 283kWp solar array on the building, which is council-owned. This would have been just a small part of the roof space available, and a wasted opportunity. Our involvement has meant that the final scheme is over 3 times larger than originally planned. This will help generate revenues for our small but mighty not-for-profit. It’s also really important for us that we maximise on these prime opportunities for reducing dependency on fossil fuels and helping Bristol to achieve its net zero goals.

The solar array at Bottle Yard is one of a number of projects we are fundraising for in this latest share offer. Others include the Bristol Beacon solar array, and the microgrid at Bridport Cohousing. We have already attracted over £1million from 366 investors.

Anyone investing is projected to receive a 3.5% return. Any surplus revenues raised from our solar generation projects go back to the community through grants and investment into more local energy projects.

If you’re interested to invest, be quick, as the current share offer closes at the end of June! More here: https://bristolenergy.coop/share-offer-2022/

If you have spotted another big rooftop crying out for solar generations, visit our Rooftop PV pages and get in touch if it seems suitable!