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ACE started life in February 2013 with the objective to take positive action in the face of the climate emergency and growing energy insecurity. In response, our priority is to provide a secure, resilient, locally-owned, low-carbon energy supply provided by installations of renewable energy.

Community Energy is a model that works and has many benefits. ACE raises funds through Community Share Offers, grants, and donations towards establishing energy projects.

Income to repay investors comes from sales of generated energy. Surplus funds after maintenance, administration costs and interest payments are deducted are allocated to our Community Benefit Fund, which allows us to and fulfil some of our wider priorities.

We have built and operate several solar arrays totalling 137 kW that produce over 130 MWh of electricity per year. Our Solar Streets scheme and other community facilitation have resulted in a further 100 kW of solar. Added together this totals over 230 MWh of clean electricity produced annually which saves around 140 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year!

MEMBERSHIP

ACE is set up as a Community Benefit Society – which is a form of Co-operative  – with two categories of member:

  • A Community Member is a shareholder who lives or works in the Avalon area. 
  • A Non-Community Member is a shareholder who does not live or work in the local area.

GOVERNANCE

ACE is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority, and is governed by ACE’s Rules.

ACE is run by a voluntary Board of Directors elected from and by the membership; all of whom are committed to bringing community owned renewables to Avalon. The Board is supported by a team of advisors incorporating legal practitioners, energy consultants, and community engagement specialists.

Groups we work with:
Community Energy England
Bath & West Community Energy
Wessex Community Energy Network

ACE is a keen and central partner in the creation of Somerset Community Energy. Collaboration of several local Community Energy groups would allow a Somerset-wide non-profit organization to take advantage of economies of scale in future projects.