When people think about investing, they often imagine distant markets, complex portfolios or large financial institutions. But what if your investment could directly benefit your local community, while still offering a financial return?
That’s exactly what community energy investment offers.
At Community Energy Preston (CEP), we use a model known as a community share offer. This allows local people to invest in renewable energy projects, such as solar installations on schools, colleges and businesses.
It’s a simple concept. Instead of one large investor funding a project, many individuals contribute smaller amounts. These funds are then used to install and operate renewable energy systems that generate clean electricity.
In return, investors receive a modest annual return on their investment.
But the real value goes far beyond financial return.
By investing in community energy, you are helping to create infrastructure that benefits Preston for years to come. You are supporting lower energy costs for local organisations, reducing carbon emissions, and contributing to projects that reinvest profits back into the community.
It’s investment with purpose.
One of the key advantages of this model is accessibility. Community share offers are designed to be inclusive, with relatively low minimum investment levels. This means more people can take part, not just large investors, but residents who want to support their local area.
Importantly, investors also become members of CEP. This gives them a say in how the organisation is run, with a one-member-one-vote structure. It’s a democratic model that ensures decisions are made in the best interests of the community, not external shareholders.
Of course, like any investment, there are risks. Community energy investments are long-term and are not covered by traditional financial protection schemes. Returns depend on the performance of the project, such as how much electricity is generated and sold.
However, the model itself is well established across the UK. Hundreds of community energy projects are already operating successfully, providing both financial returns and measurable community impact.
For many people, the appeal lies in this combination of stability, purpose and local connection.
You can see the direct impact of your investment. You can visit the buildings where the panels are installed. You can hear about the projects funded through the community fund. It brings investing closer to home, quite literally.
At CEP, our upcoming projects will provide new opportunities for local people to get involved. Whether you’re looking to invest a small amount or play a larger role in supporting renewable energy in Preston, there will be options to suit different levels of involvement.
And even if you’re not ready to invest, you can still support the movement by becoming a member, volunteering or helping to raise awareness.
Community investment is about more than money. It’s about collective action, people coming together to create something that benefits everyone.
In a time of rising costs and increasing environmental challenges, that kind of local, collaborative approach has never been more important.