Between 2025/26, Scene undertook a Phase 1 Great British Energy Community Fund (GBECF) study on behalf of Zero Carbon Ashwell. Encompassing several electrical generation, heat generation and building energy efficiency technologies, the study set out to identify viable opportunities for community-owned and led initiatives across Ashwell, North Hertfordshire.
The study identified two opportunities for further investigation:
a) A 60-kWp community-owned rooftop solar PV system, on a large residential complex. This system could directly supply on-site residential electrical demand, generate consistent community revenue and contribute to a reduction in parish carbon emissions. Informally supported by both the local planning department and Distribution Network Operator (DNO), this system is compatible with local conservation area guidelines and within grid capacity.
b) A community-led programme to support domestic decarbonisation and ASHP installations across Ashwell. This phased programme will aim to encourage and improve home energy efficiency via public workshops, home energy surveys and information events. In turn, a community support hub could also support ASHP installations across Ashwell, providing expert guidance, supplier contacts and recommendations.