The green tech energy tariff aims to reward both social housing landlords and tenants by changing the lack of incentive for landlords to invest in solar panels or batteries.

Buildings equipped with solar panels and a compatible battery system can generate their own renewable energy. Any excess energy is stored in the battery and automatically sold back to the grid at peak times, helping to balance the grid and provide a return for landlords.

The result: tenants see their electricity unit rate bills fall by 30% – saving around £200 a year – compared to a standard variable tariff, while landlords earn revenue, making clean tech upgrades a smart long-term investment. Adding a heat pump into the mix could help Tenant Power tenants save even more on their energy bills.

This win-win model removes one of the main barriers to green investment in social housing, paving the way for cleaner, fairer and cheaper energy for all. 

Grampian is leading the way as the first housing association in Scotland to roll out the tariff. The first phase covers 114 homes, with installations beginning this month and plans to expand to a further 200 homes in the coming months.

The news comes as interest in low carbon tech surges, with households looking to escape energy market volatility driven by the Middle East conflict. New data from Octopus Energy shows heat pump sales up 103%, solar panel sales up 78%, and EV charger enquiries up 42%, as more Brits try to boost their energy independence.

Octopus Energy aims to onboard 1,000 customers onto Tenant Power, with a further 10,000 homes committed, by the end of 2026.

Nigel Banks, zero bills director at Octopus Energy, said: “Solar panels and batteries should be a no‑brainer for social housing – but until now the economics haven’t worked well enough. 

“Tenant Power solves this by cutting tenants’ bills while giving social housing landlords a return for investing in green tech.

“By partnering with Grampian Housing Association, we’re delivering more affordable, greener living to social homes in Scotland, making a real impact on communities and people’s pockets.”

Zander Carle, director of asset management at Grampian Housing Association, said: “At Grampian, we are always looking for practical ways to improve our homes and help tenants manage the cost of living. 

“Tenant Power allows us to invest in low carbon technologies like solar panels and batteries in a way that directly benefits our tenants through lower energy bills, while also making long-term financial sense for the organisation.

“Being the first housing association in Scotland to roll out this tariff is an exciting step, and we see this as a positive move towards more affordable, sustainable homes for the future.”

Richard, Tenant Power customer, said: “I love that my bills are lower thanks to Octopus’ initiatives – the process was quick and easy and it really makes a huge difference. 

“It’s a bonus knowing I’m making the most of the sunshine with solar panels, and doing something good for the planet too.”