Latest News
Review of 2025
So much has happened this year that it is hard to know where to begin
2 huge projects are underway and several smaller ones bubbling under. Both of these projects are very exciting large solar arrays. We hope that contracts will be signed early next year for a large rooftop solar array just outside Bedford. We are sure that you will understand that we can’t name the location until the paperwork is signed but we are very optimistic. Once everything is signed we will be running a share offer for this project and, of course, there will be benefits going back into the community as soon as the project goes live.
Our other big project is Sheerhatch Solar Farm. We have been offered up to 10% of this installation. The whole solar farm is still in planning. We hope to know if we can move forward on this one before the summer.
The thing that we have learned more than anything else in 2025 is that patience is very much more than a virtue! Paperwork takes so long!
As we move forward with these projects we increasingly need more volunteers – especially accountancy and legal advice from experts who understand Coops and Community Energy. Please get in touch if you can help.
In the summer we secured Lottery Funding for 3 part time staff who have made a massive difference to our organisation. It has been lovely to see what a difference paid staff can make!
Our other work continues. We are regularly out and about with our Energy Champions giving free advice on keeping warm for less and avoiding drafts and damp. We also advise on solar panels, heat pumps and EVs. And don’t forget, we have a thermal imaging camera to help you track down where your home is losing heat.
In addition to all of the above, we have increased our cooperation with Greensand and Buzz Community Energy. In 2026 the 3 groups will also be working with a group from Bedford Borough to form Bedfordshire Energy Together.
Bring on 2026!
Previous Newsletters
5th Dec 2025 – What Great British Energy’s New Strategy Means for Community Energy
7th Nov 2025 – Quarterly Newsletter
18th Aug 2025 – Quarterly Newsletter
River Ivel Community Energy 