The two trade bodies representing solar energy in the UK are in the process of merging their memberships to form a 400 strong Association to champion the industry.
Details of the arrangements are still being worked out, but the plans will result in the re-launching of the Solar Trade Association as a trade body affiliated to the Renewable Energy Association (REA).

It will operate from the same offices as the REA, which will provide its administrative functions and policy expertise.

The move will bring together the 33-year old STA and members of the REA's Solar Power Group, into a new revamped STA fully representing both the solar thermal and photovoltaic (PV) industry.

The STA says this will make it the largest solar trade body in the UK with more than 400 industry members. 'This will give the solar industry a stronger voice and better representation, and the resources to fully engage in standards and certification work as well as far more targeted promotional campaigning. Training and education will also become increasingly important as the industry matures.'

The affiliation is designed to add strengths to both parties, and sharing an office in Central London will mean that the two teams will work on issues that impact on all renewable sectors, with more cohesion than before. The roll out of the new association will be happening over the coming months.

Howard Johns, chairman of the Solar Trade Association, said: 'With the growth in the solar industry in the UK, this move to bring the industry together more fully could not have come at a better time. We really need good representation for solar in the UK and I believe this new revamped STA will provide it.'

Gaynor Hartnell, chief executive of the REA, added: 'Having won the feed-in tariffs, which fired the starting gun for PV in the UK, we're keen to catch up with our European neighbours. With the solar tariffs now under review, and the continued delay to the heat incentive we need unity more than ever before.'
Existing members have welcomed the move, as they will benefit from not having to join multiple associations.

Barry Marsh of British Gas said: 'With interests in both solar markets, British Gas fully endorses this merger. It will provide unparalleled depth of knowledge and experience, enabling strong and credible representation at this crucial time.'
Neil Schofield of Bosch Thermotechnology said: 'We very much welcome the two organisations coming together, it makes obvious sense, and will be excellent for the solar industry.'

Martin Cotterell of Sundog Energy said: 'We have been in the UK PV market for the last 15 years and recognise the strengths of both organisations. We welcome this merger and think it will strengthen and provide a strong focus for the industry at this key time in the UK.'

Several key players are now joining the STA en masse, having been awaiting this development.

Andrew Lee, of Sharp said: 'We welcome the news that two well-respected trade bodies are merging to form one association which allows for a more powerful and organised voice for our Solar PV industry at a time when we need to ensure that the investments made now will deliver a strong and stable market place for the future.'

Tom Paul of Kingspan Group said: 'Good news. We now have a full-on trade association to develop the potential for solar renewable technologies. Let's hope the Government now plays its full part and backs what is a future key industry for UK growth, jobs and the built environment.'