Clean Energy Project

Sponsored by Bevan Brittan

AMBITION COMMUNITY ENERGY & AMBITION WESTON LAWRENCE

  At 150m, the Ambition Community Energy wind turbine is England’s largest, powering 3,000 homes and saving over 1,600 tonnes of CO2 yearly. Profits support the Lawrence Weston community, funding skills training and fuel poverty initiatives. The project has influenced policy discussion and developed a replicable finance model for community wind projects. Biodiversity enhancements, extensive local engagement and partnerships ensure long-term community benefits. Judges described this landmark project as "a shining example of community leadership, delivering lasting benefits and empowering local people through renewable energy".

Community Energy Initiative

STAFFORDSHIRE COMMUNITY ENERGY

Keep Warm, Keep Well is a collaboration between Staffordshire Community Energy, University Hospitals of the North Midlands Hospitals NHS Trust and fuel poverty charity Beat the Cold, linking solar PV on NHS buildings with fuel poverty support, benefiting 1,300+ households, saving 412 tonnes of CO2, cutting emergency readmissions by 38% and reducing NHS costs, setting a new standard for integrated net zero initiatives. Judges said the initiative stood out for its holistic approach, linking clean energy with public health and delivering measurable benefits that extend well beyond energy savings. They said: "It’s a replicable, inspiring model for others to follow."

Local and Public Sector Net Zero Transformation

WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS COUNCIL

Committed to net zero by 2037, Westmorland and Furness Council's achievements include a 2 MW solar farm, Passivhaus retrofits and energy upgrades, saving 507 tonnes of CO2 annually. With £26m in investments, it fosters a just transition through community involvement and tackles environmental inequalities. Judges said the local authority stood out for its "ambitious yet practical" approach to net zero, delivering real change across a range of areas despite the challenges faced.

Net Zero Energy Developer

Sponsored by Innovation Broking

THRIVE RENEWABLES

Now operating for 30 years, Thrive invests in wind, solar, hydro and geothermal projects, generating over 2 million MWh. Focused on diversity, sustainability and community engagement, its portfolio includes community-owned projects that create jobs and support local communities and biodiversity. Judges said Thrive was "a true exemplar for the energy transition" and praised it for "continuing to push boundaries after decades in the sector, developing innovative projects across multiple technologies, engaging stakeholders and delivering wider social and economic benefits". 

Net Zero Energy Pioneer

Sponsored by National Grid Electricity Distribution

DR RYAN LAW

Founder and CEO of Geothermal Engineering Ltd (GEL), Ryan has revitalised the UK geothermal power sector and, through his leadership, advanced the first UK geothermal power plant. Ryan has advocated for zero-carbon mining and contributed to local economic growth through community-focused projects, demonstrating the viability of geothermal energy as a crucial tool for a net zero future. Judges said Ryan "truly embodies the spirit of a pioneer".

Whole Energy System Innovation

Sponsored by GA Energy

CEPRO

  The Hazelmead and Water Lilies housing microgrids integrate homes with solar generation and battery storage, reducing grid import by 60% and delivering 15% cheaper energy bills for residents. This innovative model offers scalable solutions for housing decarbonisation, supporting affordable housing development and energy transition. Judges said it demonstrated how technical innovation and a focus on engaging customers can come together to deliver a replicable model for whole-system sustainability, adding: "Their approach reduces network demand, empowers communities and inspires confidence in the energy transition."