Project update: Northumberland Community Energy Limited (NCEL)

A year of consolidation

2025 has been a year of consolidation for NCEL. At the Rural Design Centre, we continue to work with partners to progress this ground breaking project.

The project completed its 11th installation with a total of 155 kWp installed capacity and 162 kWh battery storage capacity.

In the past year the community building’s have generated over 25MW of electricity.

The project is now working with 95 community buildings across Northumberland at various stages of development. The project is well on track to achieve its ambitious target of 100 installations by 2030.

Funding for the next phase of installations

The project has continued to attract funding with grants from Northumberland County Council’s RAMP fund, the GB Energy Community Fund and a Flexible Finance Facility from Key Fund. This will support the next phase of installations in 2026.

Creating a good practice guide with the Fire Service

The project has also highlighted the benefits of tackling this issue with collective action. As the first installations were commissioned it became clear there was a lack of guidance on storing Li-Ion batteries in community buildings.

NCEL was able to work with Tyne & Wear Fire service, Newcastle University and the community buildings to develop a good practice guide. This provides practical information on locating and maintaining Li-Ion batteries in community buildings.

Inspiring other community energy projects

The NCEL model has also inspired other areas to create their own Community Energy Co op to support community buildings.

RDC is supporting groups in Durham, North Yorkshire and the Highlands of Scotland to start their own community energy projects.

The power statistics for Longhoughton Sports and Social Club

Want to know more or get involved?

If you’re interested in community energy, or would like to know more about this or other energy projects we’re working on, then get in touch.