2025 Award Finalist: Community Energy Excellence (Small/Medium): Big Solar Co-op

Big Solar Co-op has grown quickly over the past six years, running volunteer-led rooftop solar projects alongside bigger installations like Whiteborough Solar Park. With over 100 volunteer members, 1,300 investor members, and 450 bond holders, the co-op has raised more than £3.8 million and generated over 1,408 MWh of clean energy for both large sites and smaller local community buildings.

Judges praised the co-op for its innovative approach, including training volunteers and others in the sector through online resources and a Community Solar Foundation course developed with Westmill Energy Co-op and Younity. They also highlighted the co-op’s balanced project portfolio, ethical sourcing, digital-first approach, and progress toward financial independence.