Winners have been announced in seven categories at the annual Green Energy Awards, hosted by Regen.
The awards are a leading national celebration of the pioneering companies and inspiring people transforming the UK’s energy system. Out of more than 100 entries submitted this year by companies, communities and individuals across the UK, 32 were shortlisted for their outstanding efforts.
"The Green Energy Awards is Regen’s celebration of the outstanding and vital work being done to lead the way to a zero-carbon energy system. They celebrate the innovative technologies, pioneering companies and exceptional individuals revolutionising the UK’s energy system. My congratulations to all the nominees for this much-deserved recognition."
Merlin Hyman, chief executive
The winners in each of the six categories, chosen by a distinguished judging panel, were as follows:
Energise Barnsley installs renewable technologies in social housing, benefiting low-income households by reducing energy bills and fossil fuel dependence. Through the Smart Solar project, 75 homes received solar and battery installations, saving residents 66% on bills and cutting CO2 by 700 tonnes annually. The project creates local jobs, encourages self sufficiency and has pioneered a replicable model using Feed-in-Tariff income for further solar installations. Judges praised the scheme for "delivering lasting benefits".
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".
Committed to net zero by 2037, the council launched a Carbon Management Strategy and Climate Action Plan in 2024. 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 Westmorland and Furness stood out for its "ambitious yet practical" approach to net zero, delivering real change across a range of areas despite the challenges faced.
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."
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."
Celebrating 30 years of clean energy, Thrive invests in wind, solar, hydro and geothermal projects, generating over 2 million MWh. Focused on diversity, sustainability and community engagement, Thrive’s 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".
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".
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