Have you considered joining a Solar Club?
Originally initiated by the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) in Bristol and 'Environ' in Leicester, self-help solar clubs were launched to support their members who meet to share skills, tools and labour. Solar Clubs are a non-profit making community programme for 'DIYers' allowing them to install solar water heating cheaply, easily and usually with some degree of  training and support. They take no commission on sales, and offer significant discount to its members. see http://alternativetechnology.org.uk/projects/solar.htm 

	How does it work? The Solar Club operates by training members to install professional solar water heating systems as DIY projects. The training course lasts one day and covers the theory, practice and health and safety aspects of installing a solar hot water system. The necessary skills required to install a typical system are not beyond the competent DIYer.
How straightforward is it? No doubt it will be a challenge, but the rewards in terms of your reduced fuel bills and the benefits to the environment will be hugely satisfying

By taking advantage of Solar Club discounts the cost can be up to two-thirds of those of a commercially installed system. Many Solar Club members have no experience of plumbing before embarking on their project. Having attended a training course, the Solar Club will help provide technical support and the necessary tools and equipment, loaned during the installation of your system.

What are the costs?
Through the Solar Club a system will cost somewhere in the region of £1500 to £2000, depending on the size and type of your installation. There is usually a one-off membership/registration fee of to join a Solar Club; this provides for the purchase of tools, training materials and the administration of the Club. Usually this includes;

	Information Evening ~ £25 enrolment fee Free Site visit  Training ~ £90 Installation check ~ £35 As a solar water heating system will provide savings in the region to 50% of your annual energy requirement for hot water, these costs will soon be recouped

The National Network of Solar Clubs
Currently 18 Solar Clubs exist with new groups frequently starting up. Solar Clubs currently operating in the SW and other regions include;

Kit Systems
Solar clubs have negotiated special rates with various manufacturers but these can also be purchased independently from manufacturers. Solar water heating is a fairly straight forward technology and a number of solar water heating kits are available for the owners to install themselves. The kits usually include;

Such kits are available from; (with a 5 yr guarantee).