Grimsby Energy Collective – Inspiring Cooperative Growth is a regional gathering that brings together community organisations, industry leaders, educators, civic representatives and infrastructure partners to explore practical opportunities for collaboration and shared progress.

Hosted by Grimsby Community Energy at Parkway Cinema, Cleethorpes, the event provides a platform for organisations working across community energy, skills, infrastructure and regional development to connect, share insight and build relationships. Through a series of short talks, an inspirational keynote and an interactive panel discussion, delegates will gain a clearer understanding of the opportunities emerging across the region and how partnership working can help unlock them.

The programme highlights real-world projects, showcases regional leadership, and explores the systems, skills and innovation needed to support locally led initiatives. Speakers represent organisations at the forefront of community energy, electricity networks, battery storage, careers development and national sector leadership, alongside keynote speaker Chris Hines MBE, a highly respected communicator and advocate for positive change.

The event is designed not only to inform, but to strengthen connections between organisations and individuals working toward a shared vision of resilient, locally driven progress. By bringing together established leaders and emerging voices, Grimsby Energy Collective helps create the conditions for new partnerships, future projects and continued growth across Greater Lincolnshire and beyond.

Event Programme

10:00am – Welcome and Introduction
Steve Rusling
Communications & Development Manager
Grimsby Community Energy

Setting the context for the day, outlining the purpose of the Energy Collective and the importance of collaboration across community, industry and civic partners.

10:05am – Skills, Careers and the Future Workforce
Lee Douglas
Strategic Careers Hub Lead, The Careers & Enterprise Company

10:20am – Community Energy in Action: Local Leadership and Impact
Dr Vicky Dunn
Managing Director, Grimsby Community Energy

10:35am – The Role of Battery Storage in a Changing Energy System
Aaron Lally
Managing Partner, Vest Energy

10:50am – Enabling Local Energy: Working with the Electricity Network
Liam Granville
Community Energy Team Lead, Northern Powergrid

11:10am – Growing the Community Energy Movement Across England
John Taylor
Head of Capacity Building, Community Energy England

11:30am – Refreshment Break
Tea and coffee sponsored by RSUK

11:45am – Keynote Address: Driving Positive Change Through Partnership and Action
Chris Hines MBE
Founder, Surfers Against Sewage
Former Sustainability Director, The Eden Project

An inspiring keynote exploring leadership, communication and practical collaboration in driving long-term positive change.

12:30pm – Panel Discussion and Audience Questions

An interactive discussion with speakers and invited regional leaders exploring future opportunities, partnership models and practical next steps.

1:00pm – Cinema Programme Concludes

1:00pm – 2:30pm – Networking Lunch
Cleethorpes Taphouse & Kitchen
Hot buffet lunch and informal networking for delegates, speakers and invited guests.