It’s no secret that our dependence on fossil fuels has to change. Fossil fuels are the largest contributor to global climate change, accounting for over 75 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. A clear motion of change is needed to shift to more renewable energy sources such as wind and solar.

One company at the forefront of this adoption is UK-based start-up, Solar Mate. Solar Mate aims to help the UK become more energy self-sufficient. Not only do they aim to help households reduce their carbon footprint but lower their monthly energy bills. 

Started in 2023 by Co-founder Tom Baker & Romilly Sinclair, Solar Mate has already helped hundreds of people make the switch to solar and they have much bigger goals for 2024, aiming to aid a further 1,000 homeowners go green. We spoke to Co-founder Tom Baker to find out more about the com­pany plans for a greener future. 

Why Did You Start Solar Mate?

With only 4% of UK homes currently generating electricity from solar panels, we have a massive opportunity to shape the future of our country by switching to a more sustainable energy source like solar. 

Over the last decade, we have seen dramatic improvements in solar technology leading to huge reductions in installation costs. This has enabled the installation of solar, to not only be a more environmentally friendly option, but a financially beneficial one.

What Have You Learnt from Run­ning The Busi­ness?

Running a business is a huge challenge. There will always be ups and downs along the way, which are hyper-inflated in the early days. However, it’s vital to remain consistent. Having a clear vision, business model and straightforward unit economics have made this a lot easier for us. 

What Ad­vice Would You Give To Some­one wanting to start a business?

If you asked me five years ago, I would say to do it. Now I would say, do your research, do a bit more research and when you have the appropriate knowledge about the market, the business model, the competition and nailed down your offering, then do it. 

I would be realistic about what you are offering in the early stages. You don’t need a product with all the bells and whistles and you don’t need to automate every aspect of your business. Keep things simple, speak to customers and learn what they want.