Octopus Energy Unveils Platform for Customers to Invest in Wind Power from Just £25

Octopus Energy has introduced a pioneering investment platform, offering customers a direct stake in its renewable energy projects. The initiative, dubbed ‘The Collective,’ marks a UK energy provider's first retail investment platform, allowing individuals to invest as little as £25 in wind power infrastructure.

The company aims to raise £1 million through the platform to fund two wind turbines—one in Yorkshire and the other in Wales. Investors will not only contribute to expanding green energy but can also expect potential returns of 6% annually, with no fees attached.

Investors who commit £1,000 would secure approximately 0.05% turbine ownership. With projected quarterly dividends, this investment could generate £180 over three years. At the end of the term, Octopus intends to buy back shares at the original price, allowing investors to cash out or reinvest in future projects.

To sweeten the deal, Octopus customers can redirect dividends toward their energy bills, effectively lowering household costs while supporting clean energy expansion.

Zoisa North-Bond, chief executive of Octopus Energy Collective, said: 'We know our customers and lots of people want to do more than use green energy; they want to own a piece of it and turbocharge the shift to a cheaper energy system.'

“We’re at the start of a people-powered renewables revolution – and ‘the Collective’ platform is bringing green energy ownership to the many, not the few. It’s time for more people to have the chance to take a stake in their clean energy future.”

Unlike traditional savings accounts, renewable energy investments carry risks. Returns depend on weather conditions, policy changes, and energy pricing—all unpredictable factors. While Octopus will underwrite the first two projects and reimburse investors if returns fall short, future ventures may not offer the same security.

Additionally, the platform operates as a Restricted Mass Market Investment (RMMI), meaning prospective investors must pass an eligibility test. Only restricted investors (those investing ≤10% of net assets), sophisticated investors (financial professionals), or high-net-worth individuals (earning £100,000+ or possessing £250,000+ in assets) can participate. Investors must also acknowledge that their capital is at risk and that early withdrawals are not permitted within the three-year term.

A 24-hour cooling-off period applies before funds can be committed, ensuring investors fully understand the risks.

For those prioritizing security, fixed-rate savings accounts may offer a safer alternative. Though they lack the sustainability appeal, they guarantee returns and are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) up to £85,000.

• Birmingham Bank: 4.63% interest (3-year fixed)

• JN Bank: 4.8% interest (5-year fixed)

• Trading 212: 5.16% interest (cash ISA)

• Chip: 5.15% interest (cash ISA)

• Moneybox: 5.02% interest (cash ISA)

While Octopus’ projected 6% annual return is higher, the lack of guarantees makes it riskier than conventional fixed deposits or ISAs.

Octopus Energy’s new platform could redefine green investment, offering ordinary consumers a direct role in the energy transition. By lowering barriers to entry and linking financial returns to real-world impact, it has the potential to mobilize capital for renewables at an unprecedented scale.

However, traditional savings products remain a more predictable option for risk-averse savers. Whether The Collective will attract mass-market adoption or remain a niche offering for sustainability-conscious investors remains to be seen.