Good Energy’s new online platform, named Selectricity, which allows businesses to reduce their carbon footprint. The peer-to-peer platform matches companies with local renewable energy generators, providing them with more control and hourly visibility of their usage.

Good Energy managing director David Brooks said: “We’re really excited to be launching Selectricity. This new offering puts consumers at the heart of the market and could unlock the potential of renewables with decentralised, local energy here in the UK.

“The platform will allow companies all across the country to develop an energy mix which perfectly suits their business and brings to life their commitment to renewable energy.”

Innovative capability

Developed by technology start-up Open Utility, the platform will enable businesses to browse online for local generators such as local wind and solar farms. Part-funded by the Government, launches following a successful trial earlier this year. Some of the first customers include the National Trust and Community Power Cornwall.

Commenting on Selectricity’s launch, UK Climate Change Minister Nick Hurd said: “Unlocking the innovative capabilities of business is paramount to our transition to a low-carbon economy, so I am delighted to see this project, which was backed by our Energy Entrepreneurs Fund, brought to the marketplace.

“We are putting innovation at the centre of our Industrial Strategy so that we are creating the ideal conditions for businesses and industries to thrive. This new online marketplace is an indication of how low-carbon and decentralised, local energy schemes can work.”

Online sustainability

The creation of online commercial marketplaces is becoming more commonplace in the sustainability sphere. For instance, several construction and manufacturing firms including Argent, AkzoNobel and The Crown Estate are currently collaborating to develop a digital hub for material re-use in the built environment.

Meanwhile, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has launched the Sustainable Energy Marketplace, a web-based platform that helps to identify promising renewable energy projects and links them to public and private financiers to help scale up investments in emerging markets.

A recent survey revealed that the overwhelming majority of millennials would be interested in an online personalised marketplace to select and purchase energy-related products and services.

George Ogleby

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