Why we are here

The REA was established in 2001, as a not-for-profit trade association, to represent British renewable energy producers and promote the use of renewable energy in the UK. The REA endeavours to achieve the right regulatory framework for renewables to deliver an increasing contribution to the UK’s electricity, heat and transport needs.

What the Association covers

Our membership is active across the whole spectrum of technologies and renewable energy applications electric power, heat, CHP, transport biofuels and biomethane to grid (“green gas”).  They comprise generators, project developers, fuel producers and distributors, equipment manufacturers and distributors and service providers. Members range in size from major multi-nationals to sole traders. The Solar Trade Association is affiliated to the REA, and together the two have a combined membership of over 950 members, making us by far the largest renewable energy industry association in the UK.

To join the REA

Go to the joining instructions in the membership section.

What the REA does for business

The REA’s main objective is to secure the best legislative and regulatory framework for expanding renewable energy production in the UK. We undertake policy development and provide input to government departments, agencies, regulators, NGOs and others. Other services include:

• Conferences, Seminars & Workshops
• Public affairs and industry PR
• Publications and newsletters
• Information on technical, legal, commercial and environmental matters
• Training courses and career opportunities
• Member networking

We also host the annual British Renewable Energy Awards

What we do for consumers

The Association sponsors the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC). The Consumer Code was set up by the Renewable Energy Association. It aims to guarantee a high quality experience for consumers wishing to buy or lease small generation units for their home. RECC membership is a sign that the supplier has agreed to abide by the high standards as set out in the Code. The Code is backed by the Trading Standards Institute as part of its self-regulation initiative, the Consumer Codes Approval Scheme. The RECC logo is a symbol of professional excellence.

How we focus on individual sectors

The REA deals with broad renewables policies, but also covers sector-specific issues. We have set up a number of Sector Groups, some looking at individual technologies, others focused on cross cutting issues.

As of May 2011 the REA Solar power group merged with the already well established Solar Trade Association. With around 300 corporate members it is by far the largest and most influential trade association in the sector. The STA is of particular relevance to any organisation with an interest in Solar PV or Solar Thermal, and particularly those involved in design, manufacture, installation, maintenance or distribution. For more information visit the Solar Trade Association website.

Association structure and resources

A Board, elected by the membership and the sector groups, directs the Association’s activities. A full-time executive team handles operational, policy, and communication issues, based at our conveniently located office in central London. We also retain a number of specialist advisors with industry expertise in individual sectors, to support the activities of the sector groups and policy development in general.

The REA is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee. The Articles of Association can be found here. The REA is primarily funded from member subscriptions.

Downloads:

• REA Environmental Policy (pdf - 0.29 MB)