The Board

We have a wide variety of skills at Community Energy Preston from our dedicated directors and passionate wider group volunteers, if you want to help us on our journey and join our community do get in touch on the contact page, or follow us on social media for one of our in-person socials.

Paul Taylor

Founding Member. Retired, former Head of Engineering.

With 40 years of working in the public sector and private industry. His main responsibilities for engineering teams delivering capital projects and plant maintenance with 10 years in a senior management role in a multi-national corporation within the United Kingdom. Life-long interest in renewables and alternative technologies. Treasurer and active member of Longridge Environment Group. Paul is a family man with 3 grown-up children and 8 grandchildren.

Nicola Parkinson

Founding Member: Engagement Officer

Nicola has an MSc in Environmental Management at Lancaster University. Nicola is working as an Engagement Officer for a local conservation charity. Her previous experience includes 15 years as a middle leader/head of department in secondary schools, Nicola is also passionate about environmental issues from conservation to net zero transition. She is also a mum of two girls, Nicola enjoys time outdoors, theatre and cake!

Joe Allman

Founding Member, Self-employed Barrister.

Joe is a barrister, specialising in the areas of counter-terrorism, organised crime, and serious sexual offences. Most of his practice is in Preston. Joe believes in the power of communities to tackle climate change and poverty. He has two girls, Joe enjoys climbing, fell running and wild swimming in his spare time.

Robin Jones

Lancashire Area Lead, NW Net Zero Hub

Robin has an MSc in Renewable Energy Engineering from UCLan. Previously Robin worked for the net zero team of Together Housing Association. Responsible for a pioneering solar and storage pilot project for the social housing sector currently covering 250 homes in Lancashire. Pro Preston Model and buying local, Robin can often be found playing tennis or failing to keep up with his border collie.

Kate Tuffs

Project manager for a national educational charity

Kate is responsible for leading a variety of business and technical projects. With a keen interest in renewable technologies and committed to making a positive impact in the world of sustainable energy solutions. Kate is a mum of two boys, enjoys spending time with her family and friends, going out and having fun days together exploring new places.

Gemma Voaden

Senior Net Zero Manager

Gemma is Senior Net Zero Manager within Together Housing’s net zero team. She is responsible for successful delivery of the housing association’s retrofit and renewable heat investment programmes. Gemma is also committed to carbon reduction goals and helping people to have warm and affordable homes whilst creating a sustainable environment. Gemma enjoys woodwork and long walks with her dog. She is also a massive Disney and theme park enthusiast.

Michael Greenhough

Civil Servant

Michael started at Community Energy Preston as our Project Coordinator but stuck around as our society secretary. Mike has a PhD in Sociology and is a Policy Advisor for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in the Energy Local Team.