Community Energy New Forest
Powering a Greener Future Together
At Community Energy New Forest (CENF), we are a passionate group of community members from across New Forest dedicated to tackling the climate crisis head-on. Our mission? To bring sustainable and renewable energy solutions to the heart of the New Forest, creating a positive and lasting impact on our communities.
What we do
We work with businesses, schools and community buildings in New Forest to deliver community-owned solar projects that provide significant cost and carbon savings with minimal financial burden on our partners.
How it works
The community energy model works in the following way:
- Long-Term Agreement:
We collaborate with building owners to establish a long-term agreement, granting us permission to install, maintain, and manage a solar PV array on your property. - Community Share Raise:
Our projects are financed through a community share raise, which invites local residents to invest in the future of their community. This approach not only funds the project but also fosters a sense of collective ownership and pride. - Power Purchase Agreement (PPA):
The electricity generated by our solar panels is sold directly to the building user via a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). This revenue stream supports the operation and maintenance of the system, covers our overheads, and provides a modest return to our community investors.
Join the Energy Revolution
By partnering with CENF, businesses and schools can enjoy the benefits of renewable energy without the hefty upfront costs. Together, we can create a more sustainable future for the New Forest, one solar panel at a time.
The Benefits of Partnering with Us
Why Join Forces with Community Energy New Forest?
Partnering with Community Energy New Forest (CENF) offers a multitude of benefits for businesses and schools looking to embrace renewable energy.
- Minimal Capital Requirements:
Get low-carbon technology installed with little to no upfront investment. We handle the financing, so you can focus on reaping the rewards. - Reduced Electricity Costs:
Enjoy significant savings on your electricity bills. Our solar solutions help cut down on energy expenses, leaving more room in your budget for other priorities. - Achieve Sustainability Goals:
Contribute actively towards your renewable energy and carbon reduction targets. Partnering with us demonstrates your commitment to a sustainable future. - Support Local Impact:
Be part of a local initiative that drives broader community and social benefits. Our projects are rooted in the New Forest, ensuring that the positive impact stays within our community.
Ready to Explore the Possibilities?
Interested in partnering with Community Energy New Forest? Contact us to discuss your needs. We'll conduct an initial assessment of your building and evaluate the potential for a solar PV installation. Just provide us with your energy consumption data, and we'll take it from there.
Our partners
We are grateful for the support of Community Energy Pathways and the New Forest District Council, whose backing helps us turn our ambitious plans into reality.
Case studies
Salisbury Community Energy and Schools Energy Coop are working in partnership to help decarbonise Salisbury and its surrounding communities. Together they have delivered 5 community owned solar projects in Salisbury, including an installation on Salisbury Cathedral.
Ouse Valley Energy Services Company (Ovesco) was one of the first organisations in the county to deliver community owned solar projects. Its first solar project was on Harveys Brewery in Lewes in 2011 and has gone on to develop 14 further rooftop solar projects on schools and community buildings in and around Lewes and one 5MW community owned solar farm near Chichester.
Join Us
CENF is a volunteer-led initiative, and we warmly welcome individuals from across the New Forest who share our vision and want to contribute to a sustainable future. Whether you have a passion for renewable energy, skills to share, or just a desire to make a difference, there's a place for you in our community.
Contact us
Whether you're interested in volunteering or looking to partner with us, we'd love to hear from you:
hello@communityenergynf.org.uk
Join us in powering a sustainable future for the New Forest!