With energy bills rising and growing concerns over carbon emissions and the volatile energy prices, more Suffolk homeowners are turning to solar panels as a way to secure their energy future. Group buying schemes such as Solar Together are often promoted as a cheaper, community driven way to go green, with backing from local councils. But are these schemes really the best option for your home?

At Solar Suffolk, we believe when it comes to something as important as your energy supply, a system tailored to your property, installed to the highest standard and supported for the long term is worth far more than a one size fits all discount. Let’s explore the realities of group buying schemes and why choosing an experienced local installer may be the better option.

What Are Group Buying Schemes?

These schemes are usually organised by third party companies, sometimes with local council backing or support. They gather groups of homeowners who are interested in solar and then negotiate a bulk deal with one installer. The goal is to reduce costs through economies of scale.

Appealing at first glance, but there are important things to consider.

One Offer – Take It or Leave It

With a group buying scheme, you receive a single quote from one installer. There’s no opportunity to compare pricing, equipment options, warranties or system sizes. If the offer doesn’t quite fit your property, requirements or budgets, your only choice is to accept it or walk away.

By contrast, working directly with a local installer, you’ll receive a bespoke solar quote, designed for your roof, your energy usage and your future needs. Not every home is the same, and neither should your solar system.

Quantity Over Quality

Bulk installations tend to focus on cost savings, which can mean cheaper panels, inverters and batteries. While these may work, they may not be as efficient, durable or supported as high quality alternatives. 

A trusted local installer will instead recommend the right combination of panels, inverter and storage for your property, balancing performance with budget. This ensures you get a system that delivers maximum efficiency while being built to last for long term value.

Limited Ongoing Support

Aftercare for group schemes is limited, often once the group scheme project is completed, organisers and installers move on, leaving very little aftercare and support. This can make it harder to get help with warranties, maintenance or system questions, leaving you having to go elsewhere for support and paying for something that should come included.

Solar panels are a long term investment, and ongoing support is just as important as the installation itself. A reputable company will offer clear aftercare, giving you confidence that you have a point of contact for years to come.

Pressure to Decide Quickly

Group buying schemes run on deadlines, so you may feel pressurised to sign up before you’ve had the chance to fully research your options. This can lead to rushed decisions, and solar is too important for that.

Working with a local installer give your time and space to ask questions, review your options and move forward at your own pace.

Longer Waiting Periods

As these schemes only progress when enough households in the area commit, you can wait weeks or even months before your installation happens.

With a local installer, once DNO approval is in place, your project can usually move ahead without delay, at a time that suits your schedule, not someone else’s.

So, Are Group Buying Schemes Bad?

Not at all, they help raise awareness of solar energy and can encourage people to make greener choices. However, if you want the best long term value, flexibility and support, it’s worth looking beyond group schemes and exploring independent options.

Why Choose a Local Solar Installer?

• Bespoke design, tailored to your home
• High quality, tried and tested components
• Transparent, competitive prices
• Friendly, local service
• Ongoing aftercare and support
• Battery storage and upgrade options available
• MCS, EPVS and HIES accredited installers

Take Control of Your Energy – Your Way

You don’t need to wait for a group scheme to save money or reduce your carbon footprint. Contact Solar Suffolk today for a free, no obligation solar quote, tailored to your home and future energy needs. No pushy sales techniques, just time and space to make the right decision for your home.

Solar on your roof. Power in your hands.