sharenergy exists to create renewable energy co-operatives: independent not-for-profit local bodies which own renewable energy plants. Energy4All has already set up 7 of these in the UK.  We want to set some more up here.

So how do we get there?

1. The Idea

Somebody has a good idea for a renewable energy project. It might be an abstract idea: I want to combat climate change! It could be based on a site: this is a windy hill,  perhaps can we put a turbine here… Or a problem: how do we get rid of this slurry? The first thing to do is to find out if it really is a good idea. You can read up more on likely projects on this website. Or contact sharenergy for a quick expert opinion. We’ll talk to you on the phone or come and see you and help to work out if the idea has energy potential.

2. The Group

We can’t do much on our own. Perhaps you are already part of a community group. That’s often the best place to start, as you probably have a lot of relevant talents between you.You might be able to take the idea to a group that you are not yet part of. Or sharenergy can help you meet other people who might like to work with you. A group need not be big. Two enthusiastic people is a group!

3. Screening

Now we have an idea and a group . sharenergy now does a more detailed screening process to see if the idea holds water. We’ll test it against simple criteria, for example:

• could it deliver a real carbon saving
• is it technically feasible (in principle)
• can it be developed using the sharenergy structure

If the idea passes the screenng phase it becomes a sharenergy project.

4. Feasibility

This is where it gets serious. Using the funding from AWM, sharenergy works with your group to develop the project. Experts in technology, planning, ecological impact and many other disciplines are brought in to take the project all the way to the planning stage.  Your group is involved in every step of the process.

5. Forming the Co-operative

We just got planning permission! Now it’s time to form the co-operative and invite local people to invest in the project. A prospectus gives details of the possible risks and returns. Typically co-ops will give returns similar to that of a building society while supporting a local project. You can become a member of the co-operative with an investment of £200 up to £20,000 Once local people have had a chance to invest you might want to invite members from the rest of the UK. Under co-operative rules, each member gets only one vote and there’s no way anybody can buy out or take over.

6. Build it

Now the money has been raised we can actually install the hydroelectric generator, raise the wind turbine or build the biogas plant. A board elected from the co-op members runs the project just like a normal company. The board decides exactly what happens to the income:

• The bulk of the profit is shared out amongst the investors
• Some income goes to keep the project going, to pay operating and admin costs
• The feasibility money is returned to a Revolving Investment Fund so that it can be used to start new projects
• Some profits may go to support good causes such as local insulation schemes - or the local rugby club!