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So Energy and Hometree team up on solar payment plan

One of the major barriers to domestic renewable energy take-up that’s often discussed is the upfront cost of equipment and installation.

A domestic roof covered in solar panels with the sun shining on it.

In recent years, we’ve seen a rise in various payment methods and models, including solar and energy as a service, to provide more options for householders looking to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.

A recent example is a subscription model currently being rolled out by start-up GRYD Energy.

Another model has just been announced by So Energy, which has launched a new solar power payment solution in partnership with Hometree Finance.

It enables homeowners to spread the cost of installing solar panels, with prices starting at around £75 per month, subject to personal quotes.

Spreading the cost of solar panel installation

With Hometree Finance’s solar lease, consumers can spread the cost of their solar panel installation over 5-25 years, and will have access to benefits such as all-inclusive cover for maintenance and repairs throughout the contract lifetime, and full replacement protection for any equipment that fails during the plan term, at no extra cost.

So Energy reports that the cost savings of solar energy speak for themselves, with customers able to save up to 70% on their energy bills by using the energy they generate through their panels.

As a clean and renewable energy source, solar power also offers homeowners the opportunity to significantly reduce their carbon dioxide emissions – the average home in the UK can save around one tonne of carbon per year by installing solar panels, according to the Energy Saving Trust.

Solar plan available to So Energy customers

The Solar Plan is available to both new and existing So Energy customers in England and Wales looking to upgrade to solar power. To receive a quote, consumers complete a short home survey and can then apply online through Hometree Finance. Offers are subject to status and finance agreement, with installation by So Energy’s expert engineers within 4-6 weeks.

Ben Smith, Head of Solar and Storage at So Energy, says: “We feel strongly that renewable energy should be accessible to all energy customers across the country, and this offer is designed to encourage solar panel uptake in pursuit of the UK’s net-zero goals, whilst giving customers complete peace of mind over their investment.”

Midsummer Spring 2025 banner

So Energy’s partnership with Hometree began in 2023 with the launch of its Home Cover offering, providing customers with a simple way to protect their homes. This collaboration is now expanding to offer customers a new, accessible route to generating their own electricity with solar power.

Nick Bellman, Group Director of Business Development at Hometree said: “We’re delighted to build upon our partnership with So Energy, to help more people transition to renewable energy and future-proof their homes.

“Installing solar panels and battery storage systems is appealing for homeowners facing high energy bills, but the upfront cost is a barrier for many. By enabling customers to spread payment while they benefit from the energy savings, our finance will make So Energy’s solar installations accessible to more households. And with monitoring and maintenance included for the plan lifetime, homeowners can make the switch to clean, green energy with confidence.”

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