Community energy

What is Community Energy?

Community Energy is a way for communities to generate or save energy together - saving money and reducing pollution at the same time.

Some projects focus on renewable electricity generation using solar panels, hydropower or wind turbines. Some work to make public buildings more energy efficient and reduce fuel poverty.

What makes Community Energy projects special is how they are funded.

While some projects are subsidised through grants or government support, all are funded at least in part by members of the community who choose to invest in them.

What problems can community energy help us solve?

· Tackling High Electricity Costs: We have some of the highest globally, leading to worsening energy inequality in our communities

· Upgrading Old Buildings: Public buildings, business premises and housing are getting increasingly unsustainable

· Future Thinking: Climate change is getting worse - we need to change things now to improve life for current and future generations

· Reducing Strain on the Grid: Increased electrification leads to too much pressure on the national grid

· Energy Security: A mix of multiple large and small scale domestic energy sources will help us keep the lights on!

What are the benefits of Community Energy:

• It can help with smaller projects that the commercial sector won't touch – village halls, schools, parish offices, Scout huts which all need to be more sustainable and cut their energy costs

• It brings in local people to create, own and control their energy generation

• It cuts carbon emissions and engages local residents in the energy transition

• It reduces community building running costs, helping to secure them for the community’s future

• Profits from locally generated energy can be used to set up a community benefit fund e.g. to help low income families to make their homes more comfy.

Local Community Energy Groups 

● Stroud Area Community Energy Network

● Forest Community Energy

● South Gloucestershire Community Energy Network

● Gwent Energy

● Thames Head Energy

● Severn Wye Energy Agency (Energised Communities)

● Climate Action Thornbury and Surrounding Areas

● Gloucestershire Community Energy Coop