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Acomb responding to the climate crisis
Community‑led renewable energy
Acomb Community Energy is a community owned solar project that will generate clean local electricity, reduce carbon emissions and benefit wildlife as part of Acomb’s contribution to tackling the climate crisis.
The solar array will be located in the field above Acomb Common. The site was chosen because of its open southerly aspect, it sits close to the local electricity network and offers space to improve wildlife habitats.
Project origins
The project began through work led by Acomb Parish Council and its Climate Change Sub‑Committee, which was set up because of growing concerns about the climate crisis. Over several years of looking at practical ways to reduce emissions in the village, the committee identified a community solar project as a positive and achievable step for Acomb to contribute to Net Zero.
Acomb Community Energy was then formed as a community‑owned, not‑for‑profit organisation to take the project forward.
Project timeline
Northumberland County Council declares climate emergency
Acomb Parish Council creates the Climate Change Sub‑Committee
The sub‑committee explores options for reducing emissions
Community solar chosen as best option and feasibility work begins
Terms agreed with the landowner where solar array will be located
Acomb Community Energy is formed as a community‑owned, not‑for‑profit organisation
Planning application for solar array submitted
Planning permission is granted
What's next
Community share offer launches
Capital is raised for construction and setup
Tendering for construction and equipment
Financial investment decision is made
Construction commences including connection to Northern Powergrid
Solar array installed and biodiversity improvements begin
Northern Powergrid connects the array to the local network
The array starts producing clean electricity for the village
Guiding principles
These principles guide how the project is developed and run:
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Climate action
Reducing carbon emissions and supporting Acomb’s contribution to Net Zero.
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Clean local energy
Generating renewable electricity for the community and supporting a more sustainable energy future.
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Environmental care
Improving the field for wildlife and looking after the land for the long term.
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Good governance
Clear information and accountable decisions through our Community Benefit Society structure.
How we're run
Acomb Community Energy is a not‑for‑profit Community Benefit Society. We are run for community purpose rather than private profit, with clear rules on how decisions are made and how any surplus is used. The project is led by local residents with support from community energy partners. We publish key documents and updates so people can follow our progress.
If you’d like to know more about how we’re run, please view our governance documents.
Paul Homer
Paul Homer is a Project Manager for a national conservation charity. He has almost 30 years’ experience of working in cultural, commercial and visitor organisations. Paul has been involved in environmental solutions professionally and personally. He moved to Acomb in 2021 and is delighted to be supporting this vital community energy work.
Guy Nicholson
Guy Nicholson has lived in Acomb for 40 years and brings long experience in electrical engineering, grid connection and integrating renewable energy into the electricity network. He is using this expertise to help guide the development of Acomb Community Energy and ensure the project is delivered safely and effectively.
Funders & supporters
This project has been made possible thanks to funding and support from:
