Brixton estate’s bright sparks helping to generate their own energy

By Nigel Gordon

Residents of one of London’s poorest areas have responded to electricity demand by having battery and solar panels installed on their building.

Families of Elmore House on the Loughborough Estate in Brixton have trialled a first-of-its-kind smart local flexible energy market by participating in the ‘Urban Energy Club’ project, following the installation of a new battery system on the block of flats.

Half of London’s housing stock is flats, which are more difficult to retrofit with the solar PV (photovoltaic) systems.

But people on estates often do not have access to the electricity generated on top of their high-rise buildings, robbing them of the energy choices families in affluent areas have.

But the installation of the new 10kW/20kWh battery in the three-month trial gave tenants a chance to get involved in the energy market.

Solar PV systems on the roof of the 62-flat high-rise block in Brixton generate electricity from the sun and store it for later.

The pioneering initiative means residents can save money on their bills as well as selling off any excess energy to their neighbours through P2P blockchain technology.

Data from utility supplier EDF energy claimed that residents saved around £7.50 on their monthly electricity bills and the solar energy provided on average 42 per cent of household electricity.

Elmore House resident Shirley Wynter said: “Improving my carbon footprint is really important to me, so to be able to be involved in this trial makes me feel like I am doing my bit for the environment, whilst saving me money each month.

“I like the way I receive the top-up rebates rather than just a discount, and if I have any solar electricity leftover, I can share it with my neighbours, and they can share it with me.”

Another resident, Anntoinette Grant, said: “I’m glad I’ve been able to take part in something that is good for the environment and saved me money each month.”

The current phase two of the project sees collaborative work between energy partners UK Power Networks (UKPN), EDF and community energy group Repowering London.

Rebecca Rosling, head of smart customers at EDF’s Research and Development UK Centre, said: “EDF is delighted that our customers in Elmore House are now able to contribute to balancing the system with the battery.

“The project demonstrates not only how densely populated areas can access renewable energy at a lower cost, but also how the power network can benefit from our renewable assets as well. As Britain’s biggest generator of zero-carbon electricity,

“EDF is excited to see the advancements on this project as we move towards the countries’ netzero targets.”

Ian Cameron, head of customer services and innovation at UK Power Networks, said: “We are really excited that the residents of Elmore House will be now be able to get involved in renewable energy management for the very first time.

“The results of this project will shape our future approach, and ultimately our aim is to make sure that everyone, no matter their situation, can benefit from the energy revolution.”

Felix Wight, technical director at Repowering London, added: “We are delighted to have helped a wider range of Londoners to participate in the transition to low-carbon energy system.

“We would like to thank all the residents that have participated, as well as the Loughborough Estate Management Board and Lambeth council for giving permission for the project to go ahead.”