News & insights - Page 2
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Why this spring is a breakthrough moment for UK community energy
Insights from Ethex Community energy in the UK has doubled in capacity over the last five years. This spring, theconditions for the next leap forward are the strongest they’ve ever been. The UK’s energysystem is under pressure. After years of price shocks, geopolitical instability and risinghousehold bills, the case for homegrown, community-led renewable energy has […] -
State of the Sector 2026: Deadline is approaching - submit your data now
UPDATE: Submissions close at 11.59pm on Tuesday 26 May. Please submit your data ASAP. We are pleased to announce that data collection for the Community Energy State of the Sector 2026 research is now open for data submission. The State of the Sector, sponsored by SP Energy Networks, and delivered in partnership by Community Energy […] Add your news story
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Energy Learning Network support for community groups
The Energy Learning Network (ELN) is offering practical support to help community groups develop their energy projects. This includes free peer mentoring and a technical helpline, alongside wider work to build sector knowledge, partnerships and peer learning across the UK. Peer Mentoring ELN mentoring connects you with an experienced practitioner who provides up to three days […] -
The Local Power Plan: Frequently Asked Questions
The Local Power Plan is the government’s flagship policy for the community energy sector (read CEE’s press release on the Plan here). In this piece, we answer some of your questions on what the Plan contains, when it will be implemented and how community energy organisations can make the most of the opportunities it presents. -
CEE leads coalition calling on Government to “Up the Energy”
On 4 March 2026, Community Energy England and a broad coalition of civil society organisations, businesses and public figures delivered an open letter to the Government calling for urgent action to unlock the full potential of community energy. The open letter is signed by over 250 organisations working across climate, poverty reduction, community development and […] -
CEE welcomes Dr Matthew Vickers as new CEO
We are pleased to confirm that Dr Matthew Vickers has been appointed as the next Chief Executive Officer of Community Energy England. He will take up the role from this month, working alongside Emma Bridge to ensure a smooth and effective transition. Matthew joins CEE at a pivotal moment for the UK energy system and […] -
Totnes Renewable Energy Society Awarded Funding from Great British Energy as part of Historic Community Energy Drive
Totnes, Devon – 10/02/26 The Totnes Renewable Energy Society (TRESOC) has been awarded funding from Great British Energy (GBE) to deliver a landmark solar installation at Dart Marine Park. It comes as the UK Government and GBE’s joint Local Power Plan supports the biggest expansion of support for community-owned energy in British history to cut […] -
Government backs local and community energy with historic investment
The Local Power Plan will deliver “the biggest public investment in community energy in this country’s history” with £1 billion invested over this parliament. -
Community Energy England welcomes the Warm Homes Plan
On 21 January the government launched the Warm Homes Plan, visiting one of our members, Hackney Light and Power (seen in the background of Ed Miliband’s video). We are pleased to see community energy featured so visibly in this conversation. Our Chief Executive, Emma Bridge, said, “Community Energy England welcomes the plan which invests £15billion to […] -
Our plans for the year - and an exciting transition
This is an exciting year for community energy. With the government’s Local Power Plan aiming to support 1,000 locally owned clean energy projects, there’s a real opportunity for the sector to grow faster and reach more communities across England. Community-led energy keeps benefits local – from lower bills and warmer homes to stronger local economies and communities with more control over their energy future. -
CEE's 2025 highlights
As we come to the end of 2025, we’re proud to look back on a year full of meaningful events, positive policy progress, and great achievements. None of this would have been possible without our members. This year, we welcomed 50 new members, growing our nationwide network of community energy organisations and supporters to more […] -
Official update on DfE pause on school solar rooftop leases with PPAs
DfE is approving projects so continue to apply! The Department of Education is approving solar panel installations for PPA projects on school roofs and encourages organisations to continue to apply as normal. You can find out how to apply on the government’s guidance website. Update from 18 March 2026 The Greater South East Net Zero […]
