Sustainable energy for Frome
Frome Town Council is working to support the town’s shift to renewable energy. As the climate crisis intensifies and energy prices remain unpredictable, local, resilient energy solutions are more important than ever. Our energy work aims to reduce emissions from heat and power to near-zero, eliminate fuel poverty and cold homes, reduce bills and make the town more energy resilient.
Locally owned renewable energy helps cut carbon emissions, lowers costs, and protects against market volatility. Our role is help people, businesses, and communities find the best opportunities, share knowledge, and access trusted solutions.
Homes | Businesses | Community
Homes
Why go solar?
Many homes in Frome could benefit from solar panels. If your roof is a good fit, solar panels could:
- Lower your energy bills by generating your own electricity.
- Reduce your carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels.
- Increase the value of your home.
- Build resilience against rising energy prices.
How to get started
- Check your solar potential – Use Solar Wizard or Go Renewable.
- Learn about your energy use – Look at your energy bills (and smart meter usage graphs, if possible) to see how much and when you use electricity. If it’s mostly in the evening, consider adding battery storage to make the most of your solar generation.
- Get a quote – Contact a trusted local installer:
- Have a chat with us – If you want to discuss renewable energy options for your home, email renewables@frometowncouncil.gov.uk.
Myth-busting and FAQs
Myth: Solar panels only work when it’s sunny
✅ While solar panels work most effectively in direct sunlight, they can still generate electricity on cloudy days. They absorb energy from the visible light spectrum, meaning they continue to produce power even when it’s overcast. A bit of rain can actually help, as it washes away dust and debris that might block sunlight.
To make the most of your solar energy, try running power-hungry appliances—like washing machines and dishwashers—during daylight hours when your panels are generating the most electricity.
Some homes also use solar battery storage, allowing them to store surplus energy for use later or even sell it back to the grid.
Myth: Solar panels are too expensive to be worth it
✅ The cost of solar has dropped significantly in recent years, and many homeowners see payback within 5-10 years. Savings depend on how much energy you use currently and how many panels you can install. Loans and financing options can also help spread the cost.
FAQ: How do I know if my roof is suitable for solar?
✅ Use Solar Wizard or Go Renewable to check your solar potential. South-facing roofs are ideal, but east- and west-facing roofs can still generate plenty of electricity.
FAQ: What happens if I generate more electricity than I use?
✅ Excess energy can be stored in a battery for later use, or it can be exported to the grid. Some energy suppliers pay for surplus energy through Smart Export Guarantees (SEGs).
FAQ: Can I get solar panels if I live in a rented home?
✅ You’ll need your landlord’s permission, but you can explain the benefits, such as increased property value and lower tenant energy costs..
FAQ: Do I need planning permission?
✅ Not usually, but check for listed buildings or conservation areas
FAQ: What maintenance is required?
✅ Solar panels require minimal maintenance, just occasional cleaning.
Funding and support
Social enterprise Lendology CIC are a social enterprise offering low-cost loans for home improvements.
Many banks offer home improvement loans: it’s worth checking with your bank if you’re eligible.
What’s next?
Once you’ve installed solar, you can maximise your benefits by:
- Using more of your electricity during the day when your panels are generating.
- Adding a battery to store surplus energy.
- Exploring smart home tech, like heat pumps and electric car charging, to optimise energy use.
Tell a neighbour – Spread the word and inspire others. Let us know if you would like some flyers
Share your story – Let us know how your solar journey is going
Get in touch if you have questions or want to be part of the growing solar movement in Frome!
Businesses
Why go solar?
Many businesses in Frome could cut costs and emissions by installing solar panels. Benefits include:
- Cutting energy costs – Generate your own electricity and reduce grid reliance.
- Enhancing sustainability – Reduce your carbon footprint and align with green business practices. Meet carbon reduction goals and enhance your reputation.
- Boosting your reputation – Demonstrate leadership in sustainability and appeal to eco-conscious customers and investors
- Improving financial resilience – Protect your business from rising energy prices and market volatility.
How to get started
- Check your solar potential – Use the Solar Wizard tool to assess your site.
- Research your energy profile and usage, to see how much the panels can save you.
- Check your roof’s condition – Consider the material, size, and orientation. Some roofing materials (like asbestos or very old tiles) may require specialist installation or reinforcement before solar panels can be fitted.
- Explore funding options – Grants and financing may be available.
- Connect with installers – Request quotes from the trusted providers below
FAQ: Is solar a good investment for businesses?
Yes, it can provide significant long-term savings.
FAQ: What if my business rents its premises?
You may still be able to install solar with landlord approval.
FAQ: Do solar panels affect business rates?
In most cases, no, but always check.
FAQ: Can solar panels power my whole business?
It depends on your energy needs, but they can significantly offset costs.
FAQ: Is solar installation disruptive?
No, most systems can be installed with minimal impact on operations.
Funding and support
Explore finance options – Various grants and business financing schemes may be available.
Lendology – Offering business-friendly loans for energy improvements.
What’s next?
Once your business has installed solar, you can maximise your benefits by:
- Shifting energy-intensive operations to daylight hours.
- Adding a battery to store surplus energy for later use.
- Exploring additional sustainability measures, such as EV charging points or heat pumps.
Community
Why support community energy?
Investing in or supporting local renewable energy projects helps keep energy generation and profits within Frome, benefiting the entire community. By getting involved with Frome Renewable Energy Community (FRECo), you can:
- Help fund and develop new community energy projects – Supporting locally owned renewable energy means profits stay in Frome.
- Deliver long-term benefits for Frome – Solar energy reduces reliance on imported energy and protects against market volatility.
- Create shared value – Community-owned projects generate income that can be reinvested into local initiatives.
- Support a fairer energy transition – Ensuring that more people, not just businesses and homeowners, can access the benefits of planet friendly energy.
How to get involved
There are many ways to support Frome’s transition to community-owned renewable energy.
Invest
Frome Renewable Energy Community (FRECo) occasionally runs community share offers to fund new projects.
Volunteer
Help shape local renewable energy projects and be part of the movement.
Share
Help raise awareness of the benefits of community-owned energy.
Funding & support
Community share offers – FRECo provides opportunities to invest in solar projects.
Grants & funding opportunities – We are working to secure grants that support community energy initiatives.
FRECo & local energy partners
Frome Renewable Energy Community (FRECo) – A locally owned organisation delivering solar projects in Frome.
Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) – Providing expert guidance on community energy and renewable projects.
Community Energy England – Supporting local energy initiatives across the UK.
What’s next
By supporting community energy, you help build a stronger, more resilient Frome. The next steps could include:
- Encouraging more community-led solar projects on schools and public buildings.
- Expanding opportunities for local investment in renewable energy.
- Engaging more people in the benefits of community-owned power.
Explore the following pages to find out about our continued efforts:
