As climate action stalls and energy bills soar—pushing millions in the UK into fuel poverty—communities are stepping up to create their own renewable energy solutions. This shift not only cuts costs and emissions but also reduces dependence on volatile fossil fuel markets.
Community Energy England, Scotland, and Wales report around 398MW of citizen-led renewable projects nationwide, enough to power 280,000 homes, with more planned. One notable example is South East London Community Energy (Selce), which has raised over £500,000 in the past decade to install free solar panels on community buildings and help thousands of vulnerable households avoid fuel debt.
Selce funds projects through community share offers, inviting local and ethical investors to support solar installations, which generate cheaper energy for schools and residents. Partner schools like Horniman and Mulgrave save thousands annually, allowing reinvestment in education and community aid. Selce also offers free workshops to improve home energy efficiency.
Despite political challenges, Selce’s volunteer-led team has grown from a small group to a 25-person organisation, now launching its largest funding campaign yet to install 800 more solar panels.
The government’s promise of low-interest loans to support community energy is welcomed but details remain unclear. Selce remains determined: community energy not only empowers people but helps build a sustainable future through collective action.
https://www.positive.news/society/power-to-the-people-the-rise-of-community-energy/
