Residents invited to shape Richmond’s community energy future

Learn more about Richmond’s new community energy initiative, with a series of informative events launching in our borough from 23 July.

Community energy is a growing movement that puts local people at the heart of clean, affordable energy. It brings people to together to develop and own local renewable energy and energy-saving projects such as solar panels on schools or community buildings or shared heating systems.

By generating clean energy locally, communities can reduce reliance on the national grid, lower energy costs for schools and community centres, and create new sources of income that stay in the borough. The launch of Richmond’s community energy initiative coincides with Community Energy Fortnight (1 to14 July).

Community energy events in Richmond

We will be hosting a series of events, in partnership with Community Energy London, to introduce residents to key concepts and to explore how a new community energy cooperative would work in Richmond

Sign up to attend the first event:

• Date: Thursday 23 July 2026, 5.30 to 7pm
• Location: Patch, 42 York Street, Twickenham, TW1 3LJ

Register now

Why get involved?

People get involved in community energy for many reasons. Some want to take practical action on climate change. Others are interested in learning new skills, meeting like-minded people, or helping to create long-term benefits for their community.

Roles in the community energy cooperative include:

• Directors to guide and govern a local cooperative
• Volunteers to help shape projects and engage the community
• Investors to support projects through community shares

How community energy projects are funded

Community energy projects are usually funded through a combination of community investment, grants and public funding, and income from selling clean energy. Any surplus generated is usually reinvested into maintaining projects or supporting further community benefit, rather than maximising private profit.

From early 2027, a new accelerator fund will also support feasibility studies for future projects in Richmond.

Community Energy Fortnight

Community Energy Fortnight, from 1 to 14 July, is a national campaign led by Community Energy England celebrating community-led climate action. It highlights inspiring local projects across the country and encourages communities to take their first steps into community energy.

Find out more

Read Community Energy London's 10 Step Guide to Setting Up a Community Energy Group.