Community-owned energy puts people in control of their renewable energy future. It means generating, using, and owning clean energy locally. Any profits are reinvested back into the community to fund projects that benefit everyone.
What it is Community-owned renewable energy projects generate electricity or heat from natural sources such as the sun, wind, or water. They are owned and run by local people, ensuring that the benefits stay local.
solar panels on private or shared land wind turbines in suitable rural locations hydro power using streams or rivers battery storage to balance supply and demand initiatives that help residents reduce their energy use These are community-scale projects designed to serve whole neighbourhoods, not just individual rooftop installations (which are supported separately through other programmes). In some areas, neighbouring communities collaborate to develop shared renewable energy schemes that make the best use of local land and resources.
To understand in more detail in more detail how community energy works, watch the video below from Power to Change
Why it matters Community-owned energy is more than just a power project. It helps communities to:
reduce greenhouse gas emissions : moving to renewables lowers harmful outputsenable local control : people take charge of clean energy generation and contribute to climate actionkeep income loca l: surplus funds can be reinvested in projects chosen by the communityprotect nature : projects can support biodiversity and be tailored to the local areabuild resilience : locally generated clean power strengthens energy security and tackles the effects of climate change
80% of UK people think it’s important that renewable energy developments provide direct benefit to local communities
- Department of Energy Security Public Attitudes Survey
Local community energy success stories Seeing real, local examples can be a powerful way to understand what’s possible. Choose a project below to find out what's happening near you.
In Lawrence Weston, residents came together to deliver England’s largest community‑owned onshore wind turbine. It generates enough electricity for around 3,000 homes, with profits reinvested locally for wider community benefit.
Find out more about Ambition Community Energy
Fairy Hill Solar Farm is a new 2MW community‑owned project in Compton Dando. Bath and West Community Energy are preparing to establish an Energy Local Club through which they can supply renewable electricity to local residents.
Key highlights:
Generating enough solar electricity to power the equivalent of 580 homes annually. BWCE are working to establish a local supply club which would enable the solar farm to sell electricity to local households The project will generate £750k of community benefit, including £220k recycled back into the community, through a ring-fenced community fund 20%+ biodiversity net gain with new hedgerows, wildflower planting, skylark habitat and continued grazing New public access to 7 acres of land, including new footpaths, signage and educational features Local Steering Group shaping biodiversity, amenities and the Energy Local offer Fairy Hill shows how communities can generate their own power, keep value local, and build long term resilience.
Find out more about Fairy Hill
Our partners in action Partners in the Community Energy Network have been working collaboratively in energy-focused and community-based projects in our area for years, working with local people to offer support, advice and expertise at many different levels. Check out how they're making a difference to a community near you
What's happening nationwide Explore the Centre for Sustainable Energy's project pages Community Energy England
Community Energy England map of community energy projects and organisations
What we're doing Our Energy in Your Community project is involved in exploring the possibilities of community-owned energy with communities around Bath and North East Somerset, as well as a range of activities in the community to raise awareness of renewable energy, both for community buildings, and at home.
Learn more about Energy in Your Community
