Community Energy

Renewable energy has the power to transform not only individual homes and businesses but entire communities.

What is Community Energy?

Community energy is when a local group pools resources to develop a renewable energy project, such as solar panels or wind turbines. The energy produced helps reduce carbon emissions and the revenue generated can be used to fund local initiatives. After operating costs and bondholders are repaid, the community can decide how to spend the surplus – whether it’s on improving local facilities, supporting those in fuel poverty, funding conservation projects, or even installing more renewable energy in community spaces like village halls, social clubs or schools.

Invest Locally, Impact Globally

Why Start a Community Energy Project?

“Be the change you want to see in the world.”

Gandhi

Generate Clean, Renewable Energy

Reduce your community’s carbon footprint by producing zero-emission electricity

Strengthen Community Bonds

Bring people together around a shared goal and foster a sense of collective ownership

Support Local Economy

Create local jobs during the installation and ongoing maintenance of renewable energy systems

Financial
Savings

Enjoy lower energy costs for local facilities and reinvest profits in community projects

Local Control & Independence

Gain energy independence by generating power locally and reducing reliance on external providers

Promote Environmental Education

Inspire and educate the community, especially younger generations, about sustainability and renewable energy

Address Fuel Poverty

Use project profits to support vulnerable households struggling with energy costs

Visible Commitment to Sustainability

Show your community’s commitment to combating climate change, boosting local pride and reputation

Access to Funding & Grants

Take advantage of government and private grants aimed at supporting community renewable energy projects

Long-Term Return on Investment

Provide stakeholders with a steady financial return while benefiting the entire community

“JPH Electricals group gave a professional and friendly service. They kept us informed throughout. We were very impressed with the quality of the work and they were clean, tidy and conscientious. We found them very competitively priced and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for work to be carried out.”

Installation of wall lights, double sockets and light switch plus testing

We worked on a number of projects of varying size for Energise South Downs, creating renewable energy generation in a range of different spaces – business, public sector, agricultural and community. These include a Hampshire County Council school, Rushmere Farm (now a carbon negative farm) near Waterlooville, and Langham Brewery, an award-winning independent brewery in West Sussex.

We also installed a small array at the Eden Court Medical Practice in Birmingham which provides medical services in a deprived ward. Not only does this enable them to take a big step towards decarbonising their building but they can power their on-site EV charger too. 89 solar panels meet 50% of their energy needs, offering substantial cost savings for this much needed community resource.

Tell us about your Community Project

How Do You Set Up a Community Energy Project?

Starting a community energy project might feel like a big deal but don’t worry, we’ve done this before!

Here are the basic steps:

1. Form a Core Group

Gather a few like-minded individuals from groups like the Parish Council, residents’ committee or local environmental organisations to discuss the idea.

2. Seek Expert Advice

Invite someone with experience in community energy to talk through the concept. We can help with this – just get in touch.

3. Find Potential Sites

Look for suitable locations like south-facing rooftops, low-grade farmland, or warehouses that use a decent amount of electricity. The ground or buildings need to be free of flood risk with no planning constraints.

4. Approach Landowners

Contact the property owners to discuss the idea of installing a community-owned solar PV system.

5. Conduct a Feasibility Study

Commission a desktop study to assess costs and potential revenues.

6. Form a Legal Entity

Set up a Co-operative or Community Interest Company (CIC) to manage the project.

7. Raise Funds

Fund the project through community bonds or grants, allowing local residents to invest.

8. Secure Planning & Approvals

Apply for planning permission, DNO connections and any necessary agreements.

9. Build and Operate

Once everything is approved, install the system and reinvest the profits into local community projects.

10. Enjoy your Green Energy!

Setting up a project takes work, but it’s achievable with support from our experienced team. When you see the money coming in from your own clean renewable energy power station, it’s all worth it!

 

Ready to Power Your Community?

If you’re interested in starting a community energy project and want to learn more, give us a call on 07375 654881 or email martin@jphrenewables.co.uk We’re here to walk you through the process, answer your questions and help turn your vision into reality.

Whether you’re just exploring options or ready to take the next step, we’d love to chat and guide you on this exciting journey!

Powering Communities, Empowering Futures