At the Community Energy England Award Ceremony at the Lowry Theatre in Salford yesterday we are proud to announce that Derbyshire Dales Community Energy (DDCE Ltd) was given the Small/Medium organisation of the year accolade. Steve Martin and Dave Locke received the award on our behalf, along with a decorative plaque in recognition of DDCE’s wide-ranging and excellent achievements. The Community Energy England Awards scheme is an annual event that recognises and celebrates outstanding achievements in community energy. This ceremony brings together individuals, organisations, and initiatives that are making significant contributions to the advancement of sustainable and locally driven energy solutions. This year’s ceremony, supported by Electricity Northwest, and took place at the Lowry Theatre in Manchester on Friday 17 November 2023.
This award recognizes one community energy organisation that has demonstrated excellence across their operations, delivery, impact, engagement, innovation, and contribution to the broader sector.
The citation read out by one of the judges stated:
“Derbyshire Dales Community Energy Ltd (DDCE) stands at the forefront of the renewable energy movement in Derbyshire. Established in 2022 as a Community Benefit Society, DDCE has been working relentlessly to combat climate change by fostering rural community-based renewable energy initiatives across Derbyshire.
DDCE collaborates with 17 community energy groups, pioneering the installation of solar panels, hydro schemes, and electric vehicle charging points. Their partnership with the Big Solar Co-op, a nationwide carbon-first non-profit, has opened avenues for large-scale solar projects in Derbyshire Dales, with potential sites boasting up to 1.5MWp of solar electricity capacity.
DDCE’s impact goes beyond clean energy generation. Their work has become a catalyst for community engagement and empowerment. By supporting volunteers and community energy groups, DDCE has provided avenues for individuals to actively contribute to the fight against climate change.”
