CORE (Community-Owned Renewable Energy) is a bold and innovative initiative dedicated to empowering communities through sustainable energy solutions. We believe that renewable energy isn’t just about tackling climate change—it’s about putting power back into the hands of local people, creating opportunities, and building stronger, more resilient neighborhoods.

Our mission is to develop community-owned renewable energy projects in areas affected by energy poverty, starting right here in Greater Manchester. By working with residents, organizations, and local leaders, we aim to provide clean, affordable energy while reducing environmental impact and fostering long-term social and economic benefits.

CORE is more than an energy initiative; it’s a movement for a fairer, greener future. Together, we can create a world where everyone has access to sustainable energy and the chance to thrive.

Why it matters.

Our approach isn't just about installing renewable technology—it's about fundamentally redesigning our energy system to be fairer, more democratic, and community centred . By putting power directly into the hands of local residents, we tackle fuel poverty, build resilience against volatile energy prices, and ensure the economic benefits of green energy stay within the community . This work makes the transition to net zero a tangible reality at the local level, where collective action has the greatest impact . Ultimately, it matters because we are building a future where communities are not just consumers of energy, but are empowered owners of a greener, fairer, and more resilient world .

Community energy refers to renewable energy projects that are owned and controlled by local people. Instead of a large corporation making decisions, a community energy model empowers residents, schools, and local businesses to collectively develop, manage, and benefit from their own clean energy sources . It’s a "bottom-up" approach that ensures the energy system serves the community's needs first .
The biggest difference is our purpose. CORE is a non-profit organization driven by a mission to create social, economic, and environmental benefits for Greater Manchester . Commercial energy companies are typically designed to generate profit for shareholders. In our model, any surplus revenue is reinvested back into the community to help tackle fuel poverty or fund other local projects . Decisions are made democratically, putting power in the hands of the community, not distant investors .
Everyone is welcome! Our model is built on inclusivity . Whether you are a homeowner, a renter, a local business owner, part of a school, or a member of a community group, you can participate. There is no special expertise required. You can get involved by attending our engagement workshops, participating in focus groups to share your views, or even becoming a community energy shareholder.
Initially, projects are often supported by grants, such as the Community Energy Fund, which covers the cost of feasibility studies and community engagement . For the long-term implementation, the goal is to fund projects through Community Share Offers, where local people can invest in the project, become part-owners, and receive a return on their investment . This model ensures the project is financially sustainable and directly accountable to the community it serves.
We explore a mix of technologies tailored to each site's unique needs and resources . Our feasibility studies assess options like rooftop solar panels (PV) on homes and schools, air source heat pumps (ASHP) for efficient heating, urban wind turbines, and even small-scale local hydro schemes . The goal is to find the most practical and effective solution for each community. We are even at the forefront of exploring less common solutions, like geothermal or hydrogen-based batteries.
This is one of the key advantages of a community energy model. Even if you can't install your own panels, you can still participate and benefit. By investing in a local project through a Community Share Offer (for as little as a few pounds), you can become a part-owner of a larger renewable system—perhaps on a local school or community centre—and receive a share of the financial returns. You also get a say in how the project is run.
Yes, though it requires a sensitive and creative approach. We are actively exploring how to integrate low-impact renewable energy sources at Victoria Baths without compromising its heritage value . Solutions include placing solar panels on non-visible roof areas, exploring the potential of an on-site borehole for a heat pump, and ensuring all installations are discreet and reversible . It’s a perfect example of how our co-design process can balance sustainability with conservation.