Our Mission
Our Mission
Community Energy Preston is a community benefit society dedicated to promoting sustainability and community energy in the Preston and North West of England area through renewable energy initiatives. Our business involves the installation of solar panels on a variety of local schools and organisations, aiming to harness solar energy to power these facilities while simultaneously benefiting the community and the environment through the distribution of profits to local people, for community benefit.
As a community benefit society, we prioritise the interests of our members and the broader community over profit. By involving local residents, businesses, and organisations in decision-making and investment, we ensure that the benefits of our projects are shared equitably and contribute to the long-term well-being of the community. CEP’s business model is based on community ownership and collaboration. We raise funds through community share offers, grants, and partnerships to finance the installation of solar panels. Profits are generated through the sale of solar electricity to participating schools and organisations.
Our Goals
- CEP aims to develop, own and/or facilitate 1MW in total of renewable energy systems by the end of 2025.
- CEP seeks to draw in the local community to purchase shares in CEP, and deliver an annual return for their investment.
- CEP will generate a community fund that will recycle surplus funds back into projects addressing, for example, energy efficiency, and fuel poverty projects.
- CEP will strengthen local supply chains and support local businesses wherever possible, with a focus on advancing the shared economy model within the Preston area.
- CEP to grow to have a large member base, and to increase awareness of the important role of community energy within local areas.