Stour Power Community Energy is a not-for-profit community benefit society working to develop community-owned renewable and low-carbon energy projects across the Stour Valley in both Suffolk and Essex. Our mission is to reduce carbon emissions while delivering lasting social and economic benefits to local communities.
Founded in 2025, we are a volunteer-led organisation that champions democratic energy ownership. We operate on a one-member-one-vote principle, ensuring every member—regardless of shareholding—has an equal voice in shaping our direction.
Members can participate in annual general meetings, working groups, and stand for election to our Board of Directors.
We are currently exploring a range of innovative projects, including solar PV on schools, community buildings, and local businesses, as well as heat networks and pumped hydro. Projects will be located on community-owned assets wherever possible, and on privately owned sites only where the benefits are clearly directed to the community or reinvested into future projects.
Our work is rooted in the rich heritage of the Stour Valley, and we aim to raise awareness of our activities, engage local people, and empower them to take part in the energy transition. We are committed to raising environmental awareness and supporting education on sustainability and carbon reduction for members and the wider community.
To fund our work, we will seek grants from national and local sources, run community fundraising events, and raise capital through community shares, bonds, or ethical loans. Any surplus will be reinvested into the continuation and development of the Society or used for social and community purposes within the area we serve.
Our Mission & Values
At Stour Power, our mission is to empower communities along the Stour River Valley to take control of their energy future—creating cleaner, fairer, and more resilient local energy systems. We believe that energy should be locally generated, democratically owned, and used for the benefit of all. Our work is rooted in collaboration, sustainability, and community empowerment.
Our Core Values
Sustainability
We prioritise long-term environmental stewardship in everything we do—from renewable energy generation to energy efficiency and education.
Community Ownership
We believe in democratic decision-making and shared ownership. Our projects are designed to be led by and for the communities they serve.
Innovation
We embrace creative solutions—from microgrids and solar farms to energy storage and smart technologies—to meet local needs and future challenges.
Local Benefit
We ensure that the financial, social, and environmental benefits of our projects stay within the community—supporting schools, councils, businesses, and residents.
Transparency
We operate openly and accountably, with clear reporting, member involvement, and public engagement at the heart of our governance.
Stour Power is a CBS, which means we’re committed to putting community benefit above private profit. Our company number is RS009500