The taskforce includes group of experts from the government, industry and community groups while the Renewable Energy Association (REA) and Solar Trade Association are both members.
The group is working to deliver on the UK government plans for it to be the norm for communities to be offered the opportunity of some level of ownership of new, commercially developed onshore renewables projects from 2015.
It has unveiled outlined three investment models that include split ownership, shared revenue and joint venture.
Under split ownership, a community enterprise will acquire a part of the project’s physical assets, for example one wind turbine or 30 solar panels.
Shared revenue would enable a community enterprise to acquire the rights to a future virtual revenue stream calculated as a specified proportion of the output of a plant.
The joint venture model requires a commercial operator and a community enterprise to work together to develop, own and manage a project.
Developers may also offer investment to individuals through crowd-funding.
REA chief executive Nina Skorupska said shared ownership of renewable energy projects is starting to take shape.
"We are working hard to ensure shared ownership is mutually beneficial for developers and communities," Skorupska added.
"Renewable energy helps reduce the twin risks of climate change and energy dependence. Shared ownership enables local people to do their bit for sustainable energy while generating tangible social and financial benefits for themselves and their neighbours."
The taskforce is currently seeking feedback on the proposals from renewable energy developers, community groups and other interested parties, which must be completed by 29 August 2014.
The final framework is expected to be published in the autumn for implementation in 2015.
Image: Under split ownership, a community enterprise will acquire a part of the project’s physical assets, for example one wind turbine or 30 solar panels. Photo: Courtesy of franky242/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
