2025 Award Finalist: Community Energy Excellence (Small/Medium): Greater Manchester Community Renewables

In 2024, Greater Manchester Community Renewables (GMCR) more than doubled its solar power, going from 346 kW to 734 kW with their biggest community-owned solar array at Wellington School. This was made possible thanks to a £350,000 share offer, lots of volunteer effort, and a strong partnership with the school. The new solar panels have already produced 275 MWh of clean energy, saving around £10,000 and cutting 102 tonnes of CO₂. GMCR also donated £20,000 to their community fund to support energy efficiency projects and environmental education.

Working with Middleton Community Power and Carbon Co-op helped strengthen local community energy networks, and volunteers were key in making the project happen and spreading the word. Judges praised GMCR for this “fantastic achievement,” their innovative work exploring battery storage and the Energy Local model, and for engaging widely with the community, including at the Labour Conference and on local radio.