06 Oct Autumn update from MaidEnergy
The sun was certainly out over summer ‘25, and we have been busier than ever working on improvements to our existing installations and planning for the future.
We reached the end of our first year with The National Lottery Fund in June, a project that has enabled us to work closely with Community Energy Pathways to attend training days, broaden our volunteer capabilities, and enrol staff on apprenticeships. We’ve also continued to develop a partnership with the University of Reading through the Just Systems project. We’ll have more developments on the results of this in the new year.
Between June and September, we generated 210MWh of electricity and heat across our sites, the equivalent of powering 78 mid-sized homes for a year! We have also made a significant effort to improve solar panel efficiency through a rigorous new maintenance schedule, including cleaning work, which will continue into 2026 and beyond.
As we move through autumn, our focus is on strengthening our operational framework and engaging more people in community energy. There are plenty of ways to get involved, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Magna Carta: We’re up and running!
We are happy to let you know that the solar panels at Magna Carta School are now fully reinstalled. This has been a long and sometimes challenging project, but we are confident that the results will be worth it. Within the process of reinstating the panels, we’ve gained valuable lessons that will strengthen how we run this and future projects. A huge thank you to everyone involved for their patience and support.
An exciting new grant from GBECF
You may recall the good news from last year, that we were awarded 31k by CEF, now known as the Great British Energy Community Fund. After a long wait, we’re excited to announce that we have received the grant agreement, which allows us to start work on the project.
The money will be used for two objectives: the first to evaluate what we can learn from our existing assets, and apply the learning to future work. The second is to help MaidEnergy develop further sites, if you know of any that might be suitable please do let us know.
Staff update: Welcome to Vitalii
Thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund, our team is growing. Vitalii says: “I recently joined MaidEnergy as a Project Coordinator. My background is in project and product management, with over ten years of experience working across international companies. Since moving to the UK, I’ve been involved in the cultural sector, currently working at Leighton House Museum and volunteered at the National Portrait Gallery. I’m also studying Art History at Birkbeck, University of London. I’m excited to bring my skills in project planning and stakeholder coordination into the community energy sector, helping MaidEnergy deliver local solar projects that make a real difference. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, exploring museums, and learning new languages.”
Spread the word! £1 membership
As part of the Year of the Co-operative, we want to make joining MaidEnergy as accessible as possible. That’s why we’re offering £1 memberships, so that younger people and new supporters can easily get involved. Being a member means having a voice in what we do and supporting local renewable energy. Do spread the word so that our climate action community can grow! Those interested can email us at maidenergy@outlook.com.
Volunteering opportunities: Marketers wanted
Thank you for your assistance in finding freelancers following our last newsletter. We’re asking for your help again; do you love social media or know someone who does?
We’re seeking marketing volunteers to help promote MaidEnergy online. Whether it’s creating posts, scheduling updates, or writing copy, your contribution will make a real difference. If you’re interested, please email Charlotte at charlotte@maidenergy.coop.
Inspiring the next generation with RBWM Youth Council
Back in July, MaidEnergy attended an event run by RBWM’s Youth Ambassadors, a group of 14-19 year-olds aiming to represent their peers across the borough. Their Climate Action Day at Brawywick Reserve saw a diverse group of children come together to explore what they can do about climate change.
MaidEnergy Director Nicola and Coordinator Charlotte discussed solar panels, renewable energy, and the local work MaidEnergy is undertaking. The enthusiasm and curiosity of the young people were inspiring and a great insight into the minds that will lead the future of community energy! You can keep an eye on the great work they’re doing here.
End of year round-up: Financial year 24/25
As it comes to the end of our financial year, we are optimistic about our position. With the repair work on Magna Carta now complete, generation from this site, along with other operational updates, has improved our income.
We would like to thank the National Lottery Community Fund for its support, which has enabled us to reach this improved position. Through the project led by Community Energy Pathways, we have been able to employ people for the first time and deliver projects more quickly.
As always, thank you for your continued support in helping us bring more renewable energy to our communities.
— The MaidEnergy Team