Derbyshire Community Renewables
Derbyshire has a thriving community renewables scene, with many successful projects rooted in its rich industrial and mining heritage.
Torrs Hydro: Community-Powered Clean Energy Since 2008
Torrs Hydro in New Mills, High Peak, was the UK’s first community-funded and operated hydropower scheme. Built on the site of the old Torr Mill, its turbine now generates 190,000 kWh/year, thanks to a 2020 system upgrade that boosted output by 65%.
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Funded by local investors and grants.
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Energy profits reinvested into the community.
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Exploring larger renewable energy projects for the area.
The Community Benefit Society would consider supporting other larger energy projects in the New Mills area. Contact secretary@torrshydro.org to discuss your ideas and the grant application process. See the project in action!
Duckmanton Wind Turbine: From Mines to Turbines
In 2014, Four Winds Energy Cooperative raised £3.5 million from local investors to install a wind turbine near Duckmanton, North East Derbyshire. The turbine has since:
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Generated 11 MWh of clean electricity.
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Saved 3,800 tonnes of COâ‚‚e.
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Funded local sustainability and energy efficiency projects.
Four Winds is part of the Energy4All cooperative network. Discover how they did it and watch former local MP Alan Simpson show how coal country sparked a clean energy revolution.
Derbyshire’s community energy movement is growing – be a part of it!
Buxton Floating Solar: Inviting Investors and Involvement
Transition Buxton plans to install a floating solar array at High Peak’s Waterswallows Quarry, Buxton, generating clean energy for 1,500 homes. A feasibility study confirmed the site’s suitability, and the team is seeking investors, skilled professionals, and volunteers to bring this project to life. Future profits aim to improve home insulation in Buxton.
Get involved: Waterswallows Solar Array
Rooftop Solar in the Dales and Belper: Big Solar, Big Roofs
Derbyshire Dales Community Energy (DDCE) and Belper Community Energy (BCE) are partnering with Big Solar Co-op (BSC) to install solar panels on large rooftops across the region. No upfront cost for building owners—just lower bills and reduced carbon emissions.
Ideal sites:
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250m²+ rooftops (size of a tennis court).
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£1,000+ monthly electricity bills.
In their words “Why hasn’t every big roof got solar? In an energy and climate crisis, it just doesn’t make sense.” BSC is making it happen with community-funded, not-for-profit solar solutions. Their business model is based on raising funds to purchase, install and maintain the panels from share offers.
Learn more and invest: Big Solar Co-op
Cromford Mill Hydro Power: Back to the Future
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​​​​​​​​​​​The Arkwright Society is bringing waterpower back to Cromford Mills, the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Originally powered by water 250 years ago, the site is now returning to its renewable energy roots.
What’s been installed?
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Water wheel, hydro turbine and water source heating.
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Generates around 40kW of clean energy.
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Cuts energy bills and reduces COâ‚‚ emissions by 25 tonnes/year.
This project also benefits the community, with a second water wheel in the village restored.
Learn more: Cromford Mills Hydro Project
For more successful and upcoming renewable energy projects in Derbyshire, check out this comprehensive list compiled by Derbyshire Dales Community Energy.
