Record turnout for Taunton community energy event

A record number of people interested in developing community energy schemes converged on Taunton for an event organised by National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED).

Groups from across the South West took part in a one-day conference at the Coopers Associates County Ground to learn from each other, whilst also learning more about the Great British Energy Community Fund, shared ownership, and the added social value of community energy.

Across Somerset and the wider region, there are dozens of energy schemes that have been developed and are owned and managed by their communities. These include solar and wind installations as well as groups dedicated to improving the energy efficiency of homes and businesses.

NGED provides support and advice for community energy groups and works with them to test innovative ideas to help ensure no one is left behind in the transition to a smarter, decarbonised electricity network.

Sarah Jeffery, NGED’s Head of Community Energy & Customer Engagement, said: “We were delighted with the engagement at the Community Energy event in Taunton.

“We had a record number of attendees, from those just starting out, to those who are more experienced in this sector. Some interesting conversations were had throughout the day, whether through presentations, panels or breaks, which we have collated to help start the discussions internally on how we can further support this sector.”

We will be holding similar regional events starting in the Midlands on Thursday 18 September 2025 at Millenium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham.

This will be followed by South Wales on Tuesday 4 November at the Swansea Arena, Oystermouth Road, Maritime Quarter, Bae Copr Bay, Swansea