This page is dedicated to surveys, requests for information and expressions of interest related to community energy organisations. We receive these from stakeholders within the sector, potential partners/funders and those carrying out sector related research.

We know survey burden is high in our sector, but that research and product/project development can be of significant benefit to the sector. To balance these costs and benefits, rather than send third-party surveys out directly, we have created this page to give those who have the time and ability to engage/contribute the means to access current surveys and research requests. Your contributions will help drive meaningful discussions, enhance existing projects, and lay the groundwork for new initiatives.

Please browse through the live surveys and requests for information and help in any way you want and are able to, and express your interest if an opportunity looks suitable for your organisation.

We understand the value of your time so we take care to provide clear descriptions outlining the purpose and objectives of each survey/request, along with the potential benefits they hold for the community energy sector.

The surveys and requests for information on this page are updated every fortnight. Make sure to check back often if you would like to stay engaged and contribute to the evolving landscape of community energy.

Opportunities to feed into Community Energy England 

CEE - Member Feedback

Member feedback is important to us. If you have any feedback or suggestions of things you would like us to do differently or change, please complete our member satisfaction survey

Grid Connection Issues

Connection issues are becoming a major barrier to community energy and net zero. We are engaging with the ENA and ESO on the issue. Please tell your story in this short survey.

General election plans

The 2024 General Election represents a massive opportunity for community energy. If we take action now, we could get a new cohort of MPs who champion the sector and put pressure on the government to offer the support community energy needs to achieve its full potential.

Please fill out this form to help CEE understand what political action you are doing or planning this year. This will not only help us to show party leaderships that local communities across England are campaigning for community energy but will also help us encourage others to take action, connect up actions where appropriate and provide support and resources.

Getting or offering expert support on applications to the Community Energy Fund

Various experienced CE practitioner members have offered to help (on a paid for basis) with applications, feasibility and development. Please note: CEE does not endorse or recommend their services. Unlike traditional consultants they are all keen to pass on their expertise so that you will be more equipped to do it yourself in future (which is now allowed under the funding guidance). Please see this spreadsheet for details of experts who could help you. If you would like to offer your expertise via this spreadsheet please add your details here. The Net Zero Hubs plan to set up a 'Dynamic Purchasing System' to enable community energy organisations to find the best consultant for their needs. This will be live and promoted via the Hub from March. Once live community energy sector experts and consultants can apply to offer their services via the DPS.

Opportunities for the sector

These surveys are often expressions of interest to get involved with pilot schemes or help shape community energy initiatives benefiting the sector and community groups. 

Energy4All - current Celtic Sea Offshore Wind development

Energy4All, are currently seeking views around what community ownership as part of the current Celtic Sea Offshore Wind development could look like.

They are keen to hear ordinary peoples' views to help shape the future of community shared-ownership of offshore wind farms in the region (South West England and Wales). It will take just five minutes of your time to have your say, by taking the survey online. Let your voice be heard and help contribute to a more sustainable energy future for our communities.

Requests for Information

Are you part of a community energy organisation that is working with or has an interest in developing onshore wind power? Have recent changes to planning rules will affected your organisation's ability to develop new onshore wind projects? Fill in our survey here.

Emma Field, a Master's student at Wageningen University in the Netherlands, is conducting research on the impact of ownership structures in Community Renewable Energy (CRE) projects. Your project's experience is incredibly valuable.

Emma is interested in understanding how different ownership models, such as fully community-owned, joint ventures, and private ownership with community benefit funds, influence decision-making processes, outcomes, and overall success of projects.

If you have experience leading or working on a joint venture community energy project, Emma would be grateful for the opportunity to interview you online for less than an hour. Please contact Emma at: emmafield.field@wur.nl

Malin Tomkins a masters student studying property development and planning at Nottingham Trent University is undertaking their dissertation on onshore wind farms with the title, "Unlocking Community Co-Ownership in the Repowering of England’s Onshore Wind Farms. The research will focus on how planning policy could further facilitate community co-ownership during repowering decision making.

Malin is looking for any members who are open to participate in a short 15 minute interview over zoom to discuss her dissertation topic and planning policy related questions. Please contact Malin if you are interested.