Shining Example: The Model Village Transformed into a Tiny Renewable Energy Haven

It’s kitsch, sure, but the message behind it isn’t. A model village in Hampshire has blossomed into a paradise for renewable energy, inspiring support for solar power in a gentle reminder of what a sustainable future can look like.

Some might describe Alan Budgen as knowledgeable about renewable energy: over recent months, he has crafted many solar panels and heat pumps to be showcased in homes across Portsmouth. But Budgen’s heat pumps are unique; they are crafted from paper and assembled into charming cardboard boxes. “I knew that creating intricate heat pumps in large quantities would be quite a challenge,” he reflects. “So I decided on a simpler design that still conveys effectiveness.”

This initiative makes perfect sense when you realize it’s all part of an installation at Southsea Model Village, a delightful 1/12th scale village created in 1956. Commissioned by renewable energy advocates, Sunshine Place welcomed visitors for two weeks in April, with the heartwarming intention of inspiring both the public and policymakers to envision a brighter, greener future.

The little village that aims to change minds

By demonstrating green energy systems in action (on a small scale), this initiative illustrates that clean, renewable energy truly belongs to everyone.

In Sunshine Place, you’ll find miniature engineers lovingly installing green technology on homes of all shapes and sizes, from classic cottages to modern builds. This representation highlights a common misconception: many believe heat pumps are ineffective in older, traditionally built homes. In reality, about 40% of their work involves helping individuals transition away from bottled gas and heating oil. There are even heartfelt testimonials from satisfied homeowners experiencing warmth and comfort.

Additionally, many are unaware of how quickly households can foster energy independence with just a few solar panels. “It’s the most tangible step you can take towards reducing those worrying energy bills,” he shares positively.

While the smiles inspired by these miniature displays can encourage homeowners to reconsider, the installation has grander aspirations. It aims to serve as a foundation for three thoughtful policy recommendations that could significantly influence how we power our homes.

First, the initiative advocates for revisiting the ‘sunshine bill,’ which aims to require all new homes to include solar panels starting in 2026. Though concerns about housing costs led to its rejection in January, glimmers of hope have appeared. Recent discussions suggest a similar policy might be reintroduced by 2027. This could be “this government’s easiest climate win” and a potential “rooftop revolution,” filled with optimism for our future.

“We were strong supporters of the sunshine bill,” he explains. “It’s a practical way the government can approach its net-zero energy goals while being easy to implement.”

The campaign also encourages transitioning current taxes on electricity to general taxation, allowing for greener choices to flourish. Presently, electricity remains costly compared to gas, and finding alternative funding sources could make a significant difference.

Finally, there is a heartfelt call for additional support for lower-income households desiring to switch to renewable energy.

Could this charming village serve as a model for communities throughout the UK? Steve Mewes believes so. As the chair of Green Wedmore, he has witnessed the beauty of community-led projects in his Somerset village, including solar farms and efforts to equip every community building and around 1,000 homes with solar energy.

While a tremendous amount of action is needed to address the climate crisis, Steve sees Wedmore as a shining example of what can be achieved. Currently, around 350 houses and various community spaces have embraced solar energy, creating a sense of unity and hope among residents.

Back at Southsea Model Village, there is a quiet hope that politicians will listen. In this petite representation, the figures converse, embodying encouragement for leaders to embrace the solar energy bill and advocate for widespread adoption of rooftop solar.

Photography: Good Energy/Ed Hill/PA Media