Recently, ahead of the Government’s announcement of its call for evidence on community batteries as part of the Local Power Plan, SNRG and Hook Norton Low Carbon welcomed Energy Minister Michael Shanks to the SmartGrid project at Hook Norton.
The visit highlighted the value of place-based energy systems and the role that private and community collaboration can play in addressing major energy challenges while delivering benefits for local people and businesses. The project has already received national recognition, winning awards from the Evening Standard, Property Week, WhatHouse, Inside Housing and Unlock Net Zero.
A working example of place-based renewable energy
Although Hook Norton is small, it is one of the most interesting demonstrations of place-based renewable energy in operation. The scheme combines an existing solar PV array with new rooftop PV, a communal battery, seven EV chargers, including five dedicated to an electric car club, and electric heating. Together, these technologies help reduce imported energy use and costs.
Using microgrids to address grid constraints
While the technology brings clear benefits, it also addresses a challenge for the distribution network operator. The site has a constrained grid connection, which would normally have required reinforcement, adding cost and delay for the developer. The microgrid helps solve this by managing power flows within the site.
This is a growing issue for both developers and business operators. SNRG is involved in projects where microgrids are helping to save tens of millions in reinforcement costs.
Extending benefits to the wider community
The Hook Norton project goes further by integrating a local energy initiative, the Hook Norton Local Energy Club. Through this “virtual microgrid”, locally generated electricity, including excess generation produced by the microgrid on the sunniest days, is supplied to residents and businesses in the area. This helps ensure that the benefits extend beyond the homes connected to the scheme.
Key learnings for the Local Power Plan
In the context of the Local Power Plan, Hook Norton offers several key learnings. It:
- Demonstrates how microgrids can tackle grid constraints
- Provides a model for funding renewables in new developments, helping to meet the Future Homes Standard without the developer or resident bearing the cost
- Integrates storage in a way that captures value locally
- Supports the wider community
A collaborative approach to local energy
The project is also a strong example of collaboration. Hook Norton Community Land Trust, Greencore Homes, SOHA Housing and Hook Norton Low Carbon have all played a crucial role in turning an ambitious idea into a working solution.
Most importantly, Hook Norton shows these solutions in operation. They are not just concepts: the technology works, and the project demonstrates how it can be implemented and operated successfully.
Supporting a smarter, lower-carbon energy system
As DESNZ considers how to implement the Local Power Plan, SNRG looks forward to sharing its learnings and exploring how the Government can work with the private and community sectors to deliver a smarter, lower-carbon, lower-cost energy system that creates lasting local benefits.
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