Award for Transformative Local Director
The director of local community energy co-operative Energise Sussex Coast, Kate Meakin, has won a national award recognising “one exceptional individual, in England, that has made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of the community energy sector or driven/delivered a particularly significant impact or success.”
The Community Energy Champion (individual) award was presented to Kate at the Community Energy England Awards 2024 in Bristol on Friday 22 November. Community Energy England represents over 300 community energy and associated organisations across England.
Founded in 2012, Energise Sussex Coast works across East Sussex to tackle the climate crisis and energy injustice through community-owned renewable power and energy-saving schemes. Its sister co-op, Energise South, has raised community investment to finance and install solar arrays on nine community buildings, including Baird Primary School and St Leonards Academy.
According to Community Energy England: “Kate Meakin’s influence on Energise Sussex Coast is nothing short of transformative. Her blend of strategic vision, innovative leadership, and compassionate community engagement has not only ensured the sustainability of ESC but has also significantly enhanced the quality of life for countless residents facing energy poverty. Without her, the achievements of ESC would not have been remotely possible.”
Kate Meakin says: “I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved at Energise Sussex Coast, from helping hundreds of people every year with our energy advice service to developing innovative new solar projects. It means a lot to get recognition nationally.”
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