Somerset Community Energy Case Studies

Avalon Community Energy (ACE) works with schools, community organisations and local businesses to increase renewable energy generation through community-owned solar installations. ACE currently operates rooftop solar installations at Brookside Academy, Hugh Sexey School, Evercreech Junction, St Dunstan’s School and Brunelcare Glastonbury. Together these projects generate approximately 350 MWh of electricity annually and save around 70 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year.

ACE uses surplus income from its renewable energy projects to support its Community Benefit Fund, helping local residents improve energy efficiency and reduce fuel poverty.

Brookside Academy Solar PV project overview

Brookside Academy in Street hosts two large rooftop solar PV arrays installed through Avalon Community Energy. The project provides renewable electricity to the school while creating income for community benefit activities and educational opportunities for pupils.

Key details

• Technology: Roof-mounted Solar PV
• Host Site: Brookside Academy, Street
• Ownership Model: Community-owned
• Organisation: Avalon Community Energy
• Community Benefit: Discounted electricity and carbon savings

Community benefits

• Reduced energy costs for the school
• Supports educational engagement around renewable energy
• Surplus income contributes to local community programmes

Generation data

The project contributes to ACE’s portfolio generation of approximately 350 MWh annually.

Project overview

ACE installed an 88-panel solar PV system at Hugh Sexey School to reduce carbon emissions and lower energy costs. The project forms part of ACE’s wider programme of supporting educational establishments through community-owned renewable energy.

Key details

• Technology: Roof-mounted Solar PV
• Host Site: Hugh Sexey School, Wedmore
• Panels Installed: 88 Solar Panels
• Organisation: Avalon Community Energy
• Status: Operational

Renewable energy generation

• Carbon Saving: 14 tonnes CO₂/year
• Equivalent Trees Planted: Approximately 560 trees

The installation is expected to save approximately 14 tonnes of carbon emissions annually, equivalent to planting around 560 trees.

Community benefits

• Reduced school electricity costs
• Educational opportunities relating to renewable energy
• Community ownership of clean energy infrastructure

Project overview

ACE installed a commercial-scale roof-mounted solar PV system at Evercreech Junction. The host business benefits from locally generated renewable electricity while supporting community energy development in Somerset.

Key details

• Technology: Roof-mounted Solar PV
• Host Site: Evercreech Junction
• Ownership Model: Community-owned
• Status: Operational

Renewable energy generation

• Annual Generation: Over 20,000 kWh/year

The installation generates more than 20,000 kWh of electricity annually.

Community benefits

• Free installation through community investment
• Reduced electricity costs for the host organisation
• Revenue generation for ACE’s community benefit activities

Project overview

St Dunstan’s School forms part of ACE’s Glastonbury Clean Energy Project. The installation supports local renewable generation while helping the school reduce operating costs and carbon emissions.

Key details

• Technology: Roof-mounted Solar PV
• Host Site: St Dunstan’s School
• Programme: Glastonbury Clean Energy Project
• Status: Operational

Community benefits

• Lower energy costs for the school.
• Local renewable energy generation supporting Somerset’s net zero ambitions.
• Generates surplus funding for community projects.

Project overview

Brunelcare Glastonbury received rooftop solar panels through the Glastonbury Clean Energy Project to reduce energy usage and support the transition to low-carbon energy.

Key Details

• Technology: Roof-mounted Solar PV
• Host Site: Brunelcare, Glastonbury
• Programme: Glastonbury Clean Energy Project
• Status: Operational

Renewable energy generation

Together, the St Dunstan’s School and Brunelcare installations are expecting:

• Annual Carbon Savings: Over 40 tonnes CO₂/year
• Community Benefit Potential: Up to £250,000 surplus funding

Community benefits

• Reduced electricity expenditure
• Significant carbon savings
• Potential generation of up to £250,000 for community benefit activities over the project lifetime

Community benefit fund

A key feature of Avalon Community Energy’s approach is reinvesting project surpluses into local benefit programmes.

Fund objectives

• Address fuel poverty
• Improve living conditions in poorly insulated homes
• Support energy efficiency improvements
• Deliver community carbon reduction projects

Examples of support have included funding practical measures such as carpets, curtains and other energy-saving improvements for local residents.

• Operating Since: 2013
• Main Technology: Rooftop Solar PV
• Current Sites: Brookside Academy, Hugh Sexey School, Evercreech Junction, St Dunstan’s School, Brunelcare Glastonbury
• Annual Portfolio Generation: Approximately 350 MWh
• Annual Carbon Savings: Approximately 70 tonnes CO₂
• Community Ownership Model: Community Benefit Society

Demonstrated outcomes

• Community-owned renewable energy generation
• Approximately 350 MWh of clean electricity generated annually
• Approximately 70 tonnes of CO₂ savings each year
• Direct financial benefits for schools, care facilities and community organisations
• Community benefit funding targeted at fuel poverty and energy efficiency
• Contribution to Somerset’s climate and net zero ambitions

Bath and West Community Energy (BWCE) is one of the UK’s leading community energy organisations. Through community investment, BWCE develops renewable energy projects and uses surplus income to support local climate action and fuel poverty programmes. Since 2010, BWCE has raised £14.7 million through community share and bond offers.

BWCE operates:

• 39 rooftop solar PV systems
• 6 ground-mounted solar farms
• 1 hydro scheme

With total renewable generation capacity of over 16.5 MW, generating enough electricity to match the annual demand of around 6,000 homes.

In Somerset, BWCE has partnered with local community energy organisations including FRECo and South Somerset Community Energy to develop community-owned solar projects.

Somerset Portfolio Summary

Somerset Installations

BWCE has supported and developed renewable energy projects at a range of Somerset sites including:

• Stowey Farm: Ground-mounted Solar
• Crewkerne Solar Farm: Ground-mounted Solar
• Various partner projects with Somerset community energy groups: Solar PV

Project overview

Crewkerne Solar Farm is BWCE newest large-scale Somerset solar project. Located near Crewkerne, the project has been developed as a community-owned solar farm designed to generate renewable electricity while delivering long-term community benefit funding.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Ground-mounted Solar PV
• Capacity: 5 MW
• Location: Crewkerne
• Ownership Model: Community-owned
• Funding Model: Community Bond Offer
• Bond Funding Raised: £1 million

Renewable energy generation

• Installed Capacity: 5 MW
• Homes Equivalent: Approximately 800 homes
• Project Lifetime: 30 years

Community benefits

• Expected Community Benefit: £750,000
  Ring-fenced Community Fund: £220,000

Additional benefits

• Local electricity supply model through Energy Local Club
• Biodiversity enhancements including wildflower meadow creation and orchard planting
• Community ownership and democratic governance

Benefits delivered

• Reduced electricity bills
• On-site renewable generation.
• Educational opportunities for pupils
• Long-term carbon savings
• Community ownership of renewable energy infrastructure

Recent deployment

BWCE reported:

• 2022/23: 780 kW across 7 schools
• 2023/24: 920 kW across 7 schools and a leisure centre
• 2024/25: 370 kW across 4 schools and a leisure centre

Renewable Energy Performance

Portfolio generation

BWCE renewable energy portfolio has grown significantly in recent years.

Metric and value (2024/25)

• Installed Capacity: 14.61 MW
• Homes Equivalent: 5,000 homes
• Annual Performance: 5.4% below forecast due to reduced sunshine
• New Solar Installed: 370 kW

Current portfolio capacity is now reported at approximately 16.54 MW, enough to match electricity demand from around 6,000 homes.

Community Benefit Programme

A defining feature of BWCE is the reinvestment of surplus income into local projects addressing climate change and fuel poverty.

Impact delivered

• Community Organisations Supported Since 2015: 64
• Total Community Funding Distributed: £430,000
• Additional Funding Added in 2024/25: £40,500

Areas supported

• Fuel poverty reduction
• Community climate action
• Community energy projects
• Energy efficiency improvements
• Local environmental initiatives

Community Energy Partnerships in Somerset

BWCE actively supports and partners with community energy organisations across Somerset, including:

• Frome Renewable Energy Community (FRECo)
• South Somerset Community Energy Society (SSCES)
• Other emerging community energy initiatives

These partnerships enable smaller local organisations to access technical, financial and project development expertise while retaining local ownership and governance.

• Organisation Founded: 2010
• Total Renewable Capacity: 16.54 MW
• Rooftop Solar Installations: 39
• Solar Farms: 6
• Hydro Schemes: 1
• Homes Equivalent: 6,000
• Investment Raised Since Launch: £14.7 million
• Community Groups Supported: 64
• Community Funding Distributed: £430,000+

Demonstrated outcomes

• One of the UK’s largest community energy portfolios
• More than 16 MW of community-owned renewable generation
• Renewable electricity equivalent to the needs of around 6,000 homes
• More than £430,000 invested into community projects since 2015
• Significant investment in Somerset schools, leisure centres and solar farms
• A proven model for delivering local renewable energy, community ownership, carbon reduction and social value across Somerset and the wider South West

Brendon Energy partnered with Transition Town Wellington to install a roof-mounted solar PV system at Wellington Rugby Club. The project provides renewable electricity to the club while generating income for community benefit activities in Wellington.

Rooftop solar photovoltaic system project details

• Technology: solar photovoltaic (PV)
• Capacity: 10 kilowatt peak (kWp)
• Location: Wellington Rugby Club
• Community partner: Transition Town Wellington
• Status: operational

Energy generation

The system generates an estimated 9,722 kilowatt hours (kWh) of clean electricity each year.

Benefits

• Reduced electricity costs for Wellington Rugby Club
• Income from the Feed-in Tariff scheme
• Funding for local community projects through Transition Town Wellington

Completed in April 2015, the Wellington Bowls Club installation became Brendon Energy’s sixth renewable energy project and second project in Wellington. The project was installed by EcoExmoor.

Solar PV project details

• Technology: solar photovoltaic (PV)
• Location: Wellington Bowls Club
• Installation date: April 2015
• Installer: EcoExmoor
• Status: operational

Benefits

• Renewable electricity for the bowls club
• Income returned to local community projects
• Funded through Brendon Energy’s third community share offer

A roof-mounted solar PV installation at North Curry Village Hall was developed in partnership with North Curry Community Energy Group to reduce energy costs and increase local renewable energy generation.

Solar photovoltaic system project details

• Technology: solar photovoltaic (PV)
• Capacity: 10 kilowatt peak (kWp)
• Location: North Curry Village Hall
• Installation date: October 2015
• Installer: Solar Systems Ltd
• Community partner: North Curry Community Energy Group

Benefits

• Renewable electricity for a busy community building
• Stronger partnerships between local organisations
• Long-term income to support community energy projects

 Installed during autumn 2015, this project provides renewable electricity to a community sports facility and was delivered jointly with North Curry Community Energy Group.

Solar project details

• Technology: solar photovoltaic (PV)
• Capacity: 10 kilowatt peak (kWp)
• Location: White Street Sports Pavilion
• Installation date: Autumn 2015
• Installer: Solar Systems Ltd
• Community partner: North Curry Community Energy Group

Benefits

• Reduced energy costs for the sports facility
• Local renewable electricity generation
• Community ownership and investment

Brendon Energy reports that its portfolio expanded from an initial solar installation at Wiveliscombe Children’s Centre to include village halls, community centres, sports clubs and schools across Somerset.

By the end of 2017, projects included installations at:

• Churchinford Village Hall
• Brompton Regis Village Hall
• Wiveliscombe Community Centre
• Wellington Rugby Club
• Wellington Bowls Club
• North Curry Village Hall
• White Street Sports Pavilion
• Heathfield Community School
• Somerset Bridge School
• North Curry School
• Court Fields School
• Friends Meeting House, Taunton

Outcomes

Brendon Energy’s work demonstrates how community-owned renewable energy can deliver lasting local benefits, including:

• Community ownership of renewable energy assets
• Lower energy bills for community organisations
• Investment opportunities through community share offers
• Funding for local projects and charities
• Generation of clean renewable electricity across Somerset

For more information, including historic generation data, visit the Brendon Energy energy production figures page.

Bristol Energy Cooperative (BEC) is one of the South West’s largest community energy organisations. It develops and owns rooftop solar, solar farms, battery storage and microgrid projects that generate renewable electricity while delivering community benefit. The cooperative has around 2,000 members and has distributed more than £440,000 through community benefit funding.

BEC’s portfolio includes:

• 23 rooftop solar installations
• 2 solar farms
• 2 battery projects
• 2 microgrid schemes

Together these projects generate approximately 12 MW of renewable energy, enough to power more than 4,500 homes annually.

Somerset portfolio summary

Somerset renewable energy installations

Within Somerset, BEC’s flagship project is the Puriton Solar Farm, located near Junction 23 of the M5 motorway.

Project overview

The Puriton Solar Farm is BEC’s principal Somerset asset and one of the organisation’s largest renewable energy projects. Located near Puriton in Somerset, the site was developed as a commercial-scale solar farm and is now community-owned through Bristol Energy Cooperative.

The project demonstrates how community ownership can be applied to large-scale renewable infrastructure while maintaining agricultural use of the land through sheep grazing.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Ground-mounted Solar PV
• Installed Capacity: 4.6 MWp
• Location: Puriton, Somerset
• Ownership Model: Community-owned Cooperative
• Original Developer: Anesco
• Operational Since: Acquired by BEC in 2016 financing phase

Renewable Energy Generation

Generation performance

• Installed Capacity: 4.6 MWp
• Portfolio Contribution: One of BEC’s two solar farms
• Equivalent Homes (shared portfolio estimate): Part of portfolio supplying 4,500+ homes

Environmental features

• Land remains in agricultural use with sheep grazing between arrays
• Solar panels are self-cleaning, minimising maintenance requirements
• Provides long-term zero-carbon electricity generation

Community benefits

• Community ownership of a utility-scale renewable energy project
• Income generation for local community benefit projects
• Demonstrates successful integration of renewable energy and agriculture

Community Benefit Programme

Overview

BEC is committed to ensuring that revenues generated from renewable energy projects create wider social benefits. Since its formation, it has channelled substantial funding into local community initiatives.

Impact delivered

• Community Benefit Funding Distributed: £440,000+
• Membership: Approximately 2,000 members
• Annual Community Benefit (2016 forecast): Approximately £70,000/year
• Areas Supported: Climate action, fuel poverty, community projects

Examples of supported activities

• Fuel poverty initiatives
• Sustainable transport projects
• Community food and repair initiatives
• Climate action and environmental programmes

Renewable Energy Portfolio Performance

Current portfolio

• Total Renewable Capacity: 12 MW
• Rooftop Solar Installations: 23
• Solar Farms: 2
• Battery Projects: 2
• Microgrid Projects: 2
• Homes Powered Equivalent: 4,500+

Historical achievement

A major community investment programme raised more than £10 million, enabling:

• Development of the Lawrence Weston Solar Farm
• Financing of the Puriton Solar Farm in Somerset
• Expansion of rooftop solar across community buildings

• Main Somerset Asset: Puriton Solar Farm
• Installed Capacity at Puriton: 4.6 MWp
• Ownership Model: Community-owned
• Agricultural Co-Benefit: Sheep Grazing
• Community Benefit Model: Profits reinvested locally

Demonstrated outcomes

• Community ownership of a 4.6 MW Somerset solar farm
• Contribution to a renewable energy portfolio generating enough electricity for more than 4,500 homes
• More than £440,000 delivered in community benefit funding
• Ambition for collaboration with Somerset community energy organisations to expand locally-owned renewable generation
• A strong example of large-scale community energy delivering environmental, economic and social value across Somerset and the wider South West

Burnham and Weston Energy CIC is a community energy organisation serving Burnham-on-Sea, Highbridge, Weston-super-Mare and surrounding rural communities. The organisation owns and operates one of the UK’s largest community-owned solar farms at Wick Farm, Lympsham. Income generated from renewable electricity sales supports fuel poverty work, community grants, energy advice services and investment in additional low-carbon projects.

The organisation raised £4 million through a community Solar Bond Offer in 2018, enabling local residents and organisations to invest directly in the project and participate in its governance.

Project overview

The Wick Farm Solar Farm is the flagship project of Burnham and Weston Energy. Located between Burnham-on-Sea and Weston-super-Mare, the project combines large-scale renewable energy generation with significant community benefit funding. The solar farm is built on agricultural land which continues to be grazed by sheep, demonstrating the compatibility of renewable energy and farming.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Ground-mounted Solar PV
• Installed Capacity: 9.3 MW
• Location: Wick Farm, Lympsham, Somerset
• Installation Date: June 2016
• Solar Panels: Nearly 36,000
• Ownership Model: Community-owned CIC
• Finance Partner: Triodos Bank
• Community Investment: £4 million Solar Bond Offer

Renewable Energy Generation

Generation performance

• Installed Capacity: 9.3 MW
• Annual Generation (2024/25): 9,950 MWh
• Homes Equivalent: Over 2,000 homes
• Solar Panels: Nearly 36,000
• Operational Since: 2016

Generation highlights

• The solar farm generated 9,950 MWh of electricity during the 2024/25 financial year.
• The installation produces sufficient renewable electricity for the equivalent of more than 2,000 homes.
• The project is one of the largest community solar schemes in the UK.
• Operations have continued successfully since June 2016, with no significant technical performance concerns reported.

Financial Performance and Community Ownership

Community finance model

Burnham and Weston Energy combines:

• Community investment through a £4 million Solar Bond Offer
• Long-term ethical finance from Triodos Bank
• Electricity sales and Feed-in Tariff income
• Community ownership and governance

Current financing position (2025)

• Original Community Bond Investment: £4.0 million
• Original Triodos Bank Loan: £7.3 million
• Total Original Financing: £11.3 million
• Outstanding Finance (Dec 2025): £7.18 million

Community Benefits

Local energy advice programme

Burnham and Weston Energy employs a specialist energy advice team supporting local residents with:

• Energy efficiency improvements
• Fuel poverty assistance
• Access to grants and retrofit funding
• Home energy assessments

The service now supports more than 500 households each year.

Community benefit priorities

Project surpluses are used to:

• Tackle fuel poverty
• Support community organisations
• Improve energy efficiency
• Fund renewable energy projects
• Deliver local climate action initiatives

Project overview

The Sunshine Fund is Burnham and Weston Energy’s flagship community benefit programme, using surplus income from the solar farm to support environmental, wellbeing and community projects across the local area.

Fund details

• Annual Community Benefit Fund: Approximately £25,000
• Geographic Area: Burnham-on-Sea, Highbridge, Weston-super-Mare and surrounding communities
• Eligible Organisations: Community groups, charities, schools, social enterprises
• Launch Year: 2019

Types of projects supported

• Renewable energy installations
• Community energy efficiency projects
• Nature conservation
• Community gardens and food growing
• Sustainable transport initiatives
• Carbon literacy and low-carbon skills
• Repair and reuse schemes
• Community building improvements

Examples of funded projects

• LED lighting upgrades in community halls
• Solar PV installations on community buildings
• Nature trails and biodiversity projects
• Energy advice initiatives
• Community food and repair projects

Project overview

Burnham and Weston Energy has developed an innovative “Solar Soft Loan” model enabling schools and community organisations to install solar PV and energy-saving measures without upfront costs.

Key features

• Eligible Organisations: Schools and Community Buildings
• Technologies Supported: Solar PV, LED Lighting, Energy Efficiency Measures
• Upfront Cost: None
• Ownership: Host Organisation owns equipment
• Repayment Model: Based on energy savings

Benefits

• Free solar electricity for community organisations
• Reduced energy bills
• Long-term ownership of renewable energy assets
• Creates a revolving community energy fund to support future projects

Project overview

In 2026, Burnham and Weston Energy partnered with Solar for Schools to fund rooftop solar across eight North Somerset primary schools. The project demonstrates how surplus income from community-owned renewable energy can catalyse further clean energy investment.

Key details

• Total Investment: Nearly £400,000
• BWE Investment: Nearly £300,000
• Schools Supported: 8
• Expected Annual Generation: 385,000 kWh
• Expected School Savings: £15,000/year
• Homes Equivalent: Approximately 130 homes

Community benefits

• Schools receive solar electricity at approximately 35% below standard energy prices
• Educational opportunities using live solar generation data
• Surplus income recycled into additional community solar projects

Environmental Benefits

Carbon reduction and local energy

The Wick Farm project delivers significant environmental benefits by:

• Generating almost 10 GWh of renewable electricity annually
• Producing enough electricity for over 2,000 homes
• Supporting local net zero objectives
• Funding further renewable energy deployment across schools and community buildings

• Main Technology: Solar PV
• Installed Capacity: 9.3 MW
• Solar Panels: Nearly 36,000
• Annual Generation: 9,950 MWh
• Homes Powered Equivalent: Over 2,000
• Community Investment Raised: £4 million
• Operational Since: 2016
• Households Supported Each Year: 500+
• Annual Sunshine Fund Value: Approximately £25,000

Demonstrated outcomes

• Ownership of one of the UK’s largest community solar projects
• Generation of nearly 10 GWh of renewable electricity annually
• Enough electricity produced to power over 2,000 homes
• More than 500 households supported annually through energy advice services
• Significant investment in schools, community buildings and fuel poverty initiatives
• A strong example of how community-owned renewable energy can generate long-term environmental, economic and social benefits for local people

Cheddar Hydro is a community-led project aiming to restore hydropower generation to Cheddar Gorge by installing a modern hydroelectric system at the historic Cox’s Mill site on the River Yeo. The initiative is being developed by local volunteers working in partnership with Cheddar Community Partnership, Bristol Water, Cheddar Caves and local stakeholders.

The project seeks to combine renewable energy generation, heritage conservation, community benefit and visitor education while re-establishing a technology that historically played a major role in Cheddar’s economy.

Historical context

Cheddar’s Hydropower heritage

For centuries, the River Yeo powered local industry in Cheddar Gorge.

• Historical Uses: Paper milling, corn milling and industrial processes
• Peak Number of Mills: 13 mills operating along the river
• Historic Site: Cox’s Mill
• First Water Power at Cox’s Mill: 1863
• Last Turbine Installed: 1957
• Capacity of Historic Turbine: 8 kW

The final hydro turbine at Cox’s Mill was installed in 1957 and generated approximately 8 kW before the facility was eventually decommissioned.

Project overview

The Cheddar Hydro proposal aims to bring hydropower generation back to the historic Cox’s Mill site using modern technology while preserving the site’s industrial heritage.

The project has received support through the Government’s Community Energy Fund, administered by the South West Net Zero Hub, to undertake detailed feasibility studies.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Run-of-river Hydropower
• Location: Cox’s Mill, Cheddar Gorge
• Watercourse: River Yeo
• Ownership Model: Community-led
• Development Stage: Feasibility Study
• Funding Support: Community Energy Fund
• Lead Organisation: Cheddar Community Partnership

Renewable Energy Generation

Projected performance

• Estimated Annual Generation: 200,000 kWh/year
• Homes Powered Equivalent: Approximately 74 homes
• Historic Turbine Capacity: 8 kW
• New Generation System: Modern Hydropower Installation

Generation highlights

The proposed new installation is expected to generate approximately 200,000 kWh of renewable electricity annually, sufficient to supply around 74 typical UK homes each year.

Project developers have highlighted that this is equivalent to enough energy to boil water for approximately two million cups of tea annually.

Community Benefits

Reinvestment into local projects

A key objective of the project is to generate income that can be reinvested into community initiatives and environmental projects within Cheddar.

Planned community outcomes

• Funding for local community projects
• Support for additional environmental initiatives
• Increased public awareness of renewable energy
• Enhanced visitor attractions within Cheddar Gorge
• Strengthening local energy resilience

Innovation and Education

Visitor and learning opportunities

An important feature of the Cheddar Hydro proposal is its educational role.

Planned features include:

• Interactive Energy Displays: Explain renewable energy generation
• Live Generation Monitoring: Public education
• Hydropower Heritage Interpretation: Preserve local history
• School and Community Learning Opportunities: Climate and energy education

Project leaders hope the scheme can serve as a regional showcase demonstrating how historic infrastructure can contribute to modern net zero objectives.

Sustainable Transport Integration

Renewable electric vehicle charging

One innovative aspect of the proposal is the intention to install electric vehicle charging infrastructure powered directly by renewable hydroelectric generation.

Benefits

• Supports low-carbon transport
• Demonstrates direct use of locally generated renewable electricity
• Provides additional visitor infrastructure
• Creates a visible example of community energy in action

Heritage Conservation

Preserving Cox’s Mill

The project combines renewable energy development with protection of local heritage.

Key heritage benefits include:

• Retaining and showcasing the site’s historic hydropower legacy
• Preserving the 1957 turbine as an historic exhibit
• Celebrating Cheddar’s industrial and milling history
• Reusing historic infrastructure for modern purposes

Project leaders have stated that the original turbine will remain as an educational and heritage feature alongside the new installation.

Community and Stakeholder Support

Local partnerships

The project has developed through collaboration between:

• Cheddar Community Partnership
• Bristol Water
• Cheddar Caves
• Cheddar Hydro Group volunteers
• Cheddar Parish Council

In October 2024, Cheddar Parish Council formally supported further development of the project following a presentation from the project team.

Environmental Benefits

Carbon reduction

By generating renewable electricity from river flow, the project aims to:

• Reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-generated electricity
• Support local net zero ambitions
• Demonstrate a low-impact renewable technology
• Produce clean energy from an existing historic site

Technology benefits

Run-of-river hydropower:

• Produces electricity continuously when water flows
• Has a long operating life
• Requires relatively small land areas
• Can work alongside heritage conservation objective.

• Project Location: Cox’s Mill, Cheddar Gorge
• Technology: Run-of-river Hydropower
• Development Status: Feasibility Stage
• Estimated Annual Generation: 200,000 kWh
• Homes Equivalent: 74 homes
• Historic Turbine Capacity: 8 kW
• First Water-Powered Operations at Site: 1863
• Community Ownership Model: Community-led
• Additional Features: EV Charging, Education, Heritage Interpretation

Demonstrated potential outcomes

• Revival of hydropower generation in Cheddar Gorge
• Production of approximately 200,000 kWh of renewable electricity annually
• Enough electricity to supply around 74 homes each year
• Generation of revenue for local community projects
• Integration of renewable energy, heritage conservation, education and sustainable transport
• A potentially flagship example of how historic Somerset waterpower assets can contribute to a low-carbon future

Frome Renewable Energy Community (FRECo) was established to bring community-owned renewable energy to Frome. Developed through Sustainable Frome and in partnership with Bath and West Community Energy, FRECo enables local residents to invest in renewable energy projects that deliver clean electricity, investor returns and community benefits.

FRECo currently operates solar PV installations at:

• Frome Medical Practice
• Frome Town Football Club

The organisation directs any surplus income from these projects into a Community Fund supporting energy efficiency, fuel poverty reduction and local climate action projects.

Project Overview

The Frome Medical Practice project is FRECo’s largest renewable energy installation. The solar array spans three rooftops at the medical practice and provides renewable electricity to support healthcare services while generating income for community benefit activities.

Key Project Details

• Technology Type: Roof-mounted Solar PV
• Installed Capacity: 150 kW
• Host Site: Frome Medical Practice
• Operational Since: 2016
• Ownership Model: Community-owned
• Funding Model: Community Shares

Renewable Energy Generation

• Installed Capacity: 150 kW
• Lifetime Generation (to April 2024): 1 GWh
• Operational Since: 2016

Since becoming operational in 2016, the installation has generated 1 gigawatt-hour (1,000,000 kWh) of solar electricity by April 2024.

Community Benefits

• Supplies clean renewable electricity to a major healthcare facility
• Generates community-owned renewable energy income
• Supports FRECo’s Community Fund activities
• Demonstrates renewable energy integration within healthcare infrastructure.

Project Overview

FRECo operates a roof-mounted solar array on the South Stand of Frome Town Football Club. The installation provides renewable power generation while demonstrating how community-owned energy can support local sporting facilities.

Key Project Details

• Technology Type: Roof-mounted Solar PV
• Installed Capacity: 50 kW
• Host Site: Frome Town Football Club
• Location: South Stand Roof
• Operational Since: 2016
• Ownership Model: Community-owned

Renewable Energy Generation

• Installed Capacity: 50 kW
• Operational Since: 2016

The solar array has operated continuously since 2016.

Community Benefits

• Renewable electricity generation from an existing community asset
• Supports community ownership of local energy infrastructure
• Generates revenue for further local climate action projects

Operational Portfolio

• Frome Medical Practice: 150 kW
• Frome Town Football Club: 50 kW
• Total Installed Capacity: 200 kW

Generation Performance

• Total Installed Capacity: 200 kW
• Largest Installation: Frome Medical Practice (150 kW)
• Lifetime Generation Reported: 1 GWh
• Operational Since: 2016

Project Overview

A central aim of FRECo is to ensure that financial benefits from renewable energy remain within the community. Surpluses generated from renewable energy projects are reinvested through the FRECo Community Fund.

Community Fund Objectives

• Energy saving measures
• Fuel poverty reduction
• Community climate action
• Youth engagement
• Energy advice services
• Community renewable energy projects

Community Fund Case Studies

Frome Youth Climate Action

FRECo awarded £1,500 to support youth-led climate action initiatives delivered by Edventure through the Green & Healthy Frome project. The programme enables young people aged 12 to 18 to design and lead sustainability projects, events and climate campaigns.

Outcomes

• Youth climate leadership development.
• Community environmental action.
• Sustainability education and engagement.

YMCA Youth and Community Centre Solar Project

FRECo provided £3,000 match funding for the installation of solar panels at the YMCA Youth and Community Centre in Frome.

Outcomes

• Reduced energy bills
• Lower carbon emissions
• Improved sustainability of a key community facility

Emergency Warmth Vouchers

Working in partnership with the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE), FRECo funded pre-payment energy vouchers for households experiencing fuel poverty. Between April 2021 and April 2022, 23 households received support and energy advice.

Outcomes

• Direct financial assistance
• Improved wellbeing during winter months
• Energy advice and support referrals

Healthy Homes Support

FRECo supports the Healthy Homes project delivered in partnership with:

• Frome Town Council
• Frome Medical Practice
• Centre for Sustainable Energy

The programme provides practical energy-saving measures including:

• LED bulbs
• Radiator reflectors
• Secondary glazing
• Tailored home energy advice

Outcomes

• Improved thermal comfort
• Reduced household energy use
• Increased access to retrofit support

Energy Advice Volunteer Programme

FRECo funds a part-time Volunteer Coordinator to recruit and support local Energy Advice Champions. This has helped expand the reach of community energy advice and doubled support capacity within the Healthy Homes programme.

Outcomes

• Increased volunteer capacity
• More home energy visits
• Enhanced support for vulnerable residents

Governance and Community Ownership

FRECo operates as a democratic community energy organisation where members invest through community shares and elect a volunteer board of directors. The organisation follows a “one member, one vote” model and reinvests project surpluses into local benefit projects.

The organisation was founded through Sustainable Frome and continues to work closely with local partners including Bath and West Community Energy.

• Main Technology: Solar PV
• Number of Operating Sites: 2
• Total Installed Capacity: 200 kW
• Largest Installation: 150 kW
• Lifetime Generation Reported: 1 GWh
• Operational Since: 2016
• Community Ownership Model: Community Shares
• Community Fund: Yes

Demonstrated Outcomes

• Community ownership of local renewable energy assets.
• 200 kW of rooftop solar installed across healthcare and sports facilities.
• More than 1 GWh of renewable electricity generated by the Frome Medical Practice installation alone.
• Direct support for fuel poverty, energy efficiency and community resilience projects.
• Investment in youth climate action and community renewable energy initiatives.
• A successful community energy model that keeps environmental, social and economic benefits within Frome.

Mendip Power Group is one of Somerset’s pioneering community-scale renewable energy initiatives. The group works with owners of historic watermills to install and operate micro-hydroelectric turbines, generating clean electricity while preserving important heritage assets. The projects utilise existing weirs, mill races and waterways across the Mendip area, primarily on rivers such as the Frome.

Unlike solar energy projects, Mendip Power Group focuses exclusively on small-scale hydropower, enabling year-round renewable electricity generation from local rivers and streams.

Hydropower Portfolio Summary

Published Hydropower Sites

• Tellisford Mill: 55 kW
• Stowford Mill: 37 kW
• Shawford Mill: 31 kW
• Jackdaws Iron Works: 10 kW
• Farrants Mill: 9.9 kW
• Coleford Mill: 6.6 kW
• Glencot House: 5.8 kW
• Bleadney Mill: 5.4 kW
• Burcott Mill: 5.2 kW
• Old Mill: 5.2 kW

Portfolio Capacity

The published sites provide a combined installed capacity of approximately 171 kW of renewable hydroelectric generation.

Project Overview

Tellisford Mill is the flagship project of the Mendip Power Group and the first scheme to begin generating electricity. Located on the River Frome, the historic mill was converted into a modern run-of-river hydroelectric installation while retaining its historic character.

The hydro scheme began operation in April 2007 and remains one of Somerset’s best-known community-scale hydropower projects.

Key Project Details

• Technology Type: Run-of-river Hydropower
• Location: Tellisford, Somerset
• Watercourse: River Frome
• Installed Capacity: 55 kW
• Operational Since: 2007
• Ownership Model: Mendip Power Group
• Historic Asset: Former Watermill

Renewable Energy Generation

• Installed Capacity: 55 kW
• Technology: Run-of-river Hydro
• Commissioning Year: 2007

Community Benefits

• Generates renewable electricity from an existing mill site
• Preserves the heritage of a historic Somerset watermill
• Provides year-round low-carbon electricity generation
• Demonstrates how historic assets can contribute to modern net zero goals

Project Overview

Stowford Mill is one of the largest assessed hydro opportunities within the Mendip Power Group portfolio. The project uses the existing watermill infrastructure to generate renewable electricity from local water resources.

Key Project Details

• Technology Type: Micro-hydro
• Location: Stowford Mill
• Installed Capacity: 37 kW
• Ownership Model: Mendip Power Group

Community Benefits

• Preserves historic milling infrastructure
• Generates low-carbon electricity from local waterways
• Contributes to Somerset’s distributed renewable energy capacity

Project Overview

The Shawford Mill project forms part of the wider Mendip Power Group network of hydro installations. The site demonstrates how multiple small-scale schemes can collectively contribute renewable electricity generation.

Key Project Details

• Technology Type: Micro-hydro
• Capacity: 31 kW
• Historic Asset: Former Watermill

Alongside its larger schemes, Mendip Power Group has developed or assessed a network of smaller hydropower projects located at historic former mills across Somerset. These include:

• Jackdaws Iron Works: 10 kW
• Farrants Mill: 9.9 kW
• Coleford Mill: 6.6 kW
• Glencot House: 5.8 kW
• Bleadney Mill: 5.4 kW
• Burcott Mill: 5.2 kW
• Old Mill: 5.2 kW

Benefits of the Network Approach

• Makes use of existing water infrastructure
• Reduces environmental impact compared with large hydro developments
• Provides resilient, distributed renewable generation across Somerset
• Supports conservation of historic mill buildings and waterways

Environmental Benefits

Why Hydropower?

Run-of-river hydropower differs from large dam-based hydroelectric schemes because it generates electricity from the natural river flow without requiring major water storage. This significantly reduces environmental impacts while providing continuous renewable generation.

Environmental Outcomes

• Low-carbon renewable electricity generation
• Productive reuse of historic infrastructure
• Preservation of heritage assets
• Local generation supporting energy resilience

Heritage and Community Value

A distinctive aspect of Mendip Power Group is the integration of renewable energy generation with heritage conservation. Rather than building entirely new infrastructure, the projects bring historic watermills back into productive use.

Community Outcomes

• Protection of Somerset’s industrial heritage
• Increased awareness of renewable energy technologies
• Demonstration of community-scale hydropower opportunities
• Support for local decarbonisation efforts

• Main Technology: Run-of-river Hydropower
• Number of Published Sites: 10
• Combined Installed Capacity: Approximately 171 kW
• Largest Site: Tellisford Mill (55 kW)
• Second Largest Site: Stowford Mill (37 kW)
• Operational Since: 2007 (Tellisford)
• Historic Assets Reused: Former Watermills

Demonstrated Outcomes

• Created one of Somerset’s most significant clusters of community-scale hydropower installations.
• Developed approximately 171 kW of micro-hydropower capacity across historic mills.
• Successfully restored and reused heritage watermill infrastructure for renewable energy generation.
• Established Tellisford Mill as one of the South West’s pioneering hydroelectric restoration projects.
• Demonstrated how local rivers and historic assets can contribute to Somerset’s transition to net zero while preserving cultural heritage.

South Somerset Community Energy Society (SSCES) was established to reduce carbon emissions and fuel bills across South Somerset, particularly for people experiencing fuel poverty. The Society is owned by its members and raises investment through community share offers to finance renewable energy installations on schools, community buildings and businesses. Any surplus income generated is reinvested into local community energy and fuel poverty initiatives.

Since 2016, SSCES has installed solar PV systems at a range of sites including:

• Westfield Academy, Yeovil
• Abbey Community Association Hall, Yeovil
• Holyrood Academy, Chard
• Stanchester Academy, Stoke-sub-Hamdon
• River Cale Café, Wincanton (2024)

Renewable Energy Portfolio Summary

Portfolio overview

• Operational Since: 2016
• Main Technology: Rooftop Solar PV
• Electricity Generated (2016-2023): Over 2,000 MWh
• Community Ownership Model: Community Benefit Society
• Initial Share Offer Raised: Approximately £285,000

Portfolio highlights

SSCES reports that its projects generated more than 2,000 MWh of renewable electricity between 2016 and 2023, delivering carbon savings and reduced electricity costs to host organisations across South Somerset.

Project overview

Westfield Academy was SSCES’s flagship project and one of its first community solar installations. The project was designed to install approximately 200 kW of solar PV across buildings at the school, with almost all generated electricity expected to be consumed on-site.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Rooftop Solar PV
• Host Site: Westfield Academy, Yeovil
• Estimated Capacity: Approximately 200 kW
• Ownership Model: Community-owned
• Funding Model: Community Share Offer
• Power Purchase Agreement: Yes

Renewable energy generation

• Installed Capacity: Approx. 200 kW
• Annual Generation: Over 160 MWh in 4 out of 7 full operational years

Financial benefits

The scheme was designed to:

• Generate Feed-in Tariff income of approximately £18,700 per year
• Deliver energy bill savings of more than £10,000 in the first year for the school
• Supply electricity to the school at less than half its normal electricity tariff

Community benefits

• Reduced school energy costs
• Long-term renewable energy generation
• Income generation for local fuel poverty and community projects

Project overview

The Abbey Community Association Hall in Yeovil was one of SSCES’s original pilot projects. The installation demonstrates how community buildings can reduce operating costs through community-owned solar generation without requiring upfront capital investment.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Rooftop Solar PV
• Host Site: Abbey Community Association Hall, Yeovil
• Ownership Model: Community-owned
• Roof Lease Agreement: Yes
• Power Purchase Agreement: Yes

Community benefits

• Reduced electricity costs for a community facility
• No upfront installation costs for the host organisation
• Income retained within the local community through SSCES

Project overview

Holyrood Academy formed part of SSCES’s second tranche of projects and extended community solar generation into the Chard area. The project supports both carbon reduction and educational engagement with renewable energy.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Rooftop Solar PV
• Host Site: Holyrood Academy, Chard
• Ownership Model: Community-owned
• Status: Operational

Community benefits

• Reduced carbon emissions
• Lower electricity costs for the school
• Support for local community energy development

Project overview

Stanchester Academy represents another key SSCES educational project. The installation provides renewable electricity to the academy while supporting SSCES’s wider mission of reducing carbon emissions and fuel bills across South Somerset.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Rooftop Solar PV
• Host Site: Stanchester Academy, Stoke-sub-Hamdon
• Ownership Model: Community-owned
• Status: Operational

Community benefits

• Reduced energy expenditure for the school
• Carbon savings through renewable generation
• Demonstration of community-led energy investment in education

Generation data

SSCES notes that the Stanchester array has generated enough electricity to have “boiled a kettle half a million times” since installation, illustrating the significant cumulative output of the system.

Project overview

Installed during 2024, the River Cale Café project is SSCES’s newest renewable energy installation. The project demonstrates the Society’s continued expansion beyond schools into community-based facilities.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Rooftop Solar PV
• Host Site: River Cale Café, Wincanton
• Installation Year: 2024
• Ownership Model: Community-owned

Community benefits

• Reduced electricity costs for a community business
• Additional renewable energy generation capacity within South Somerset
• Continued growth of the SSCES portfolio

Community Benefit Model

How SSCES creates community value

SSCES operates using a model that:

1. Raises capital through community shares and loans
2. Installs solar PV free of charge on host buildings
3. Sells renewable electricity to hosts at discounted rates
4. Receives income from electricity sales and Feed-in Tariffs
5. Reinvests any surplus into community energy and fuel poverty initiatives

Community outcomes

• Reduced fuel bills for host organisations
• Local ownership of clean energy infrastructure
• Community investment opportunities for South Somerset residents
• Long-term support for fuel poverty and climate action projects

• Operating Since: 2016
• Main Technology: Rooftop Solar PV
• Electricity Generated (2016-2023): Over 2,000 MWh
• Largest Published Installation: Westfield Academy (~200 kW)
• Share Capital Raised (Initial Offer): Approximately £285,000
• Community Ownership Structure: Community Benefit Society
• Surplus Reinvestment: Community Energy and Fuel Poverty Projects

Demonstrated outcomes

• More than 2,000 MWh of renewable electricity generated from 2016 to 2023
• Community-owned solar installations across schools and community facilities
• Significant energy cost savings for schools and community organisations
• A successful community share model raising approximately £285,000 for local renewable energy projects
• Ongoing reinvestment of surpluses into fuel poverty and community energy initiatives throughout South Somerset
• A strong example of community-owned rooftop solar delivering environmental, financial and social benefits across rural Somerset

The South Somerset Hydropower Group (SSHG) was created to demonstrate how historic watermills could be returned to productive use through renewable energy generation. The initiative brought together owners of former mills to install micro-hydroelectric turbines and share technical expertise, lessons learned and project development experience.

The project became a national model for community-scale hydropower and inspired similar initiatives elsewhere in the UK, including the Mendip Power Group. SSHG received a prestigious Ashden Award in 2005 for its innovative approach to renewable energy and heritage conservation.

Hydropower Portfolio Summary

Programme overview

• Established: 2001
• Number of Mill Owners Involved: 10
• First UK Hydropower Mill Group: Yes
• Expected Portfolio Generation: 600 MWh/year
• Homes Equivalent: Approximately 150 homes
• Annual CO₂ Savings: 260 tonnes

Published sites

• Gants Mill: Pitcombe
• Clapton Mill: Clapton
• Cole Manor: Bruton
• Cary’s Mill: Martock
• Cutterne Mill: Evercreech

Project overview

Gants Mill, near Pitcombe, was the first operational project developed through SSHG and became a flagship example of how historic milling infrastructure could be adapted to generate renewable energy. The project demonstrated the technical and financial viability of small-scale hydropower in Somerset.

The scheme began generating electricity in 2003 and remains one of the best-known hydro restoration projects in the South West.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Micro-hydropower
• Location: Pitcombe, Somerset
• Host Site: Gants Mill
• Commissioned: 2003
• Turbine Type: Cross-flow turbine
• Turbine Diameter: 300 mm
• Installed Capacity: Up to 12 kW

Renewable energy generation

• Installed Capacity: 12 kW
• Technology: Cross-flow Hydro Turbine
• Operational Since: 2003

Sources:[en.wikipedia.org] and [en-academic.com]

Community benefits

• Restoration of a historic working watermill
• Long-term renewable electricity generation
• Demonstration project for future UK hydropower developments
• Catalyst for wider micro-hydro development across Somerset

Project overview

Clapton Mill formed part of SSHG’s wider programme to retrofit historic mill infrastructure for modern renewable energy generation. The project showcased how existing water resources could be utilised without major environmental disruption.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Micro-hydropower
• Location: Clapton, Somerset
• Historic Asset: Former Watermill
• Project Type: SSHG Portfolio Installation

Community benefits

• Preservation of local heritage assets
• Renewable electricity generation from local waterways
• Contribution to regional carbon reduction goals

Project overview

Located near Bruton, Cole Manor forms part of SSHG’s network of micro-hydro installations. The scheme demonstrates how smaller rural sites can collectively contribute significant renewable energy generation when developed as part of a coordinated programme.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Micro-hydropower
• Location: Bruton
• Project Type: Historic Watermill Conversion

Project overview

Cary’s Mill in Martock is one of several historic mills that participated in the South Somerset Hydropower initiative. The project contributes renewable electricity generation while helping preserve South Somerset’s industrial and agricultural heritage.

Community benefits

• Productive reuse of historic infrastructure
• Renewable energy generation from local rivers
• Demonstration of community-led energy innovation

Project overview

Located in Evercreech, Cutterne Mill forms part of the SSHG hydropower portfolio. As with the wider programme, the objective was to utilise existing mill infrastructure and watercourses to generate clean electricity with minimal environmental impact.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Micro-hydropower
• Location: Evercreech
• Project Type: Historic Watermill Hydro Conversion

Portfolio generation

When fully developed, SSHG estimated that its portfolio would achieve:

• Annual Generation: Approximately 600 MWh
• Homes Powered Equivalent: Approximately 150 homes
• Annual CO₂ Savings: Approximately 260 tonnes

Significance

The portfolio demonstrated that small hydro installations, when deployed across multiple sites, can deliver meaningful renewable energy generation while preserving historic infrastructure.

Historic mill conservation

A defining feature of SSHG is the integration of renewable energy generation with heritage conservation.

Benefits included:

• Restoration of historic watermills
• Retention of traditional weirs and watercourses
• Continued use of historic industrial assets
• Increased public awareness of renewable energy technologies

Environmental outcomes

• Renewable electricity generation from natural river flows
• Avoidance of approximately 260 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually
• No requirement for major new dams or reservoirs
• Productive use of existing infrastructure and landscapes

The South Somerset Hydropower Group became an influential model for community-scale renewable energy across the UK.

Key achievements

• First hydropower mill owners’ group established in the UK
• Winner of the 2005 Ashden Award
• Inspired development of similar schemes, including Mendip Power Group
• Demonstrated the viability of micro-hydropower in historic watermills

The group also estimated that around 40,000 mill sites across the UK could potentially be suitable for micro-hydropower development.

• Established: 2001
• Mill Owners Involved: 10
• First Operational Scheme: Gants Mill (2003)
• Flagship Capacity: 12 kW
• Annual Portfolio Generation: 600 MWh
• Homes Equivalent: 150
• Annual Carbon Savings: 260 tonnes CO₂
• National Award: Ashden Award 2005

Demonstrated outcomes

• One of the UK’s pioneering community hydropower programmes
• Generation of approximately 600 MWh of renewable electricity annually across participating sites
• Sufficient clean electricity to supply approximately 150 homes
• Avoidance of around 260 tonnes of carbon emissions every year
• Preservation and productive reuse of historic South Somerset watermills
• Established a model that influenced community hydropower development across the UK, including later projects in Somerset

Wedmore Community Power Co-operative was established by local residents in 2013 to enable the Isle of Wedmore community to generate its own renewable electricity. Through investment from community shareholders, WCPC developed a 1 MW solar photovoltaic farm located north of Wedmore and has been generating renewable electricity since October 2013.

The project was designed to reduce reliance on fossil fuel-derived electricity from the National Grid while creating long-term community benefits through shareholder returns and a local grant programme.

Project overview

The Wedmore Solar Farm is a community-owned renewable energy project consisting of almost 4,000 solar panels installed across two paddocks north of Wedmore. The solar farm generates clean electricity for the local grid and provides funding for local community initiatives through the Co-operative’s Community Grants Programme.

Key project details

• Technology Type: Solar PV Solar Farm
• Installed Capacity: 1 MW (1 MWp)
• Location: North of Wedmore, Somerset
• Installation Date: October 2013
• Ownership Model: Community-owned Co-operative
• Funding Model: Community Share Offer
• Solar Panels: Approximately 4,000
• Grid Connection: Local electricity distribution network

Renewable energy generation

Generation performance

• Annual Generation (2024): Over 961,000 kWh
• Typical Generation Capacity: Up to 1,000,000 kWh per year
• Homes Equivalent: Approximately 300 homes
• Annual Carbon Saving: Approximately 450 tonnes CO₂
• Operational Since: October 2013

Generation highlights

• In 2024, the solar farm generated more than 961,000 kWh of electricity despite variable weather conditions
• Generation in 2023 exceeded 1,012,000 kWh
• The project was originally designed to generate around 1 million kWh annually, equivalent to installing solar panels on approximately 300 homes
• Annual carbon savings are estimated at approximately 450 tonnes of CO₂

Financial Performance and Community Ownership

Community investment model

The project was funded through a community share offer that enabled local residents to become co-owners of the solar farm. The share offer closed in November 2013 after successfully raising investment from local shareholders.

Recent financial performance

• Total Income: £206,000
• Feed-in Tariff Income: £106,000
• Annual Surplus: £70,000
• Net Assets: £1.05 million

The Co-operative continues to provide interest payments to members while retaining sufficient income to invest in community initiatives and maintain the solar installation.

Community benefits

Community grant programme

One of WCPC’s principal objectives is to reinvest project profits into the local community through its Community Grants Fund. Grants support projects that:

• Address social need
• Deliver long-term community benefit
• Increase sustainability
• Reduce reliance on fossil fuels
• Promote community partnership working

Grant programme details

• Typical Grant Range: £100 to £5,000
• Funding Rounds: Two per year
• Eligible Applicants: Charities, voluntary groups, community organisations
• Geographic Focus: Isle of Wedmore

Community impact examples

In 2024, WCPC supported numerous local organisations through its grants programme including:

• Wedmore First School groups
• Wedmore in Bloom
• Wedmore Tuesday Club
• Avalon Camps
• Wedmore Tennis Club
• St Mary’s Church
• Theale Village Show
• Wedmore Young Farmers 90th Show

The Co-operative also funded an off-grid renewable power system at Wedmore Village Farm. Total community support payments during the year amounted to £62,000.

Environmental benefits

Carbon reduction

The solar farm helps reduce reliance on fossil fuel generation by producing locally generated renewable electricity. The scheme:

• Produces around 1 GWh of renewable electricity annually
• Saves approximately 450 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year
• Supplies enough renewable electricity to meet the annual needs of around 300 homes
• Supports Somerset’s wider net zero ambitions through community-led renewable energy generation

Challenges and future opportunities

Future planning

WCPC has begun planning for the future operation of the solar farm beyond 2033, when the original Feed-in Tariff support mechanism is due to end. Directors are considering options to ensure the project continues delivering environmental and community benefits after subsidy support ceases.

Opportunities

• Continued operation beyond Feed-in Tariff expiry
• Further community sustainability projects
• Additional community energy initiatives
• Expansion of local renewable energy and energy efficiency support programmes

• Technology: Solar PV
• Installed Capacity: 1 MW
• Solar Panels: Approximately 4,000
• Annual Generation: Approximately 1,000,000 kWh
• Homes Equivalent: 300 homes
• Annual Carbon Savings: 450 tonnes CO₂
• Operational Since: October 2013
• Community Funding Model: Community Shares
• Community Grant Programme: Yes

Demonstrated outcomes

• Community ownership of a large-scale renewable energy asset
• Generation of around 1 GWh of clean electricity per year
• Carbon savings of approximately 450 tonnes CO₂ annually
• Funding returned directly to local projects through an established community grants programme
• More than £62,000 distributed to community initiatives in 2024 alone
• A successful example of community-led renewable energy delivering both environmental and social value across Somerset