What is Community Power and Why Is It Important?
Published date: January 2026
Community Power is now becoming a core part of how the UK is transitioning to a cleaner, fairer and more resilient energy system. As more people look for greener ways of living, understanding Community Power has never been more important.
What is Community Power?
Community Power refers to green energy generated by local community energy groups and shared collectively.
These groups develop renewable energy projects — such as local solar installations, hydro schemes, or community-owned wind turbines — to produce clean electricity that benefits both people and the planet.
In simple terms: It’s local people generating local, renewable energy for the benefit of the whole community.
Why does Community Power matter?
Across the UK, community groups are stepping up to build renewable projects that reduce carbon emissions and strengthen local resilience. This shift isn’t just about big infrastructure — it’s about people coming together to create long-term, sustainable energy solutions.
The renewable energy produced from these projects is then used by energy suppliers like us. Today, Your Co-op Energy’s Community Power Tariff supports over 30,000 UK homes, connecting customers directly with clean, community-generated power.
And new for this year: our Community Power Tariff is now the same price as our standard Fixed Tariff — meaning you can support community renewables at no extra cost.
The Importance of Community Power
1. Decarbonisation
The UK is moving away from fossil fuels, which pollute the environment and are finite. Community energy projects are built around renewable sources such as sun, wind and water — resources that don’t run out and produce far fewer emissions.
A key part of the story is that everyday people, not just big organisations, are driving progress. Communities are developing projects even with limited government subsidies, proving the power of grassroots action.
2. Reinvestment in Local Communities
When you support Community Power, you support reinvestment.
Part of the profits generated through community-owned energy goes straight back into local projects — funding new installations, strengthening local resilience, and supporting future development.
This reinvestment helps build a more secure, stable and independent energy system for the UK.
3. Consumer Empowerment
You really do have power as a consumer. Choosing community-generated energy gives you a say in the type of energy future you want to support.
It also helps you move towards a more sustainable lifestyle by making conscious, values-led choices about your energy use.
Why people choose Community Power?
When you choose a tariff powered by community-owned renewables, you:
- Support local green energy projects
- Help reinvest profits back into communities
- Cut your carbon impact
- Benefit from clean, shared green energy
- Become an advocate for a fairer, more sustainable energy system
And now there’s no financial barrier — Your Co-op Energy’s Community Power Tariff costs the same as our Fixed Tariff, making it easier than ever to back community-led renewables.
Want to learn more?
Discover how Your Co-op Energy uses Community Power to supply clean energy and support community-owned renewable projects across the UK.
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