Citizen Solar Launches Community-Led Climate Action Project in Southend to Coincide with Essex Community Energy Conference 2026
Southend-on-Sea, 21 March 2026 — Citizen Solar, a newly formed Community Benefit Society, launched its initiative to bring community-owned renewable energy projects to Southend, timed to coincide with the Essex Community Energy Conference 2026, held on Friday, 20th March 2026 at the Museum of Power, Hyde Road, Maldon, Essex, CM9 6QA.
The Essex Community Energy Conference brought together community energy groups, local authorities, funders, and stakeholders from across Essex. The event provided a platform for sharing knowledge, showcasing successful projects, and exploring new opportunities to advance community-led climate action and community-owned renewable energy initiatives.
Attendees participated in expert presentations, interactive workshops, and networking sessions designed to strengthen collaboration and innovation within the sector.
Cllr Peter Schwier, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction, and Recycling and Climate Czar, was the primary speaker at the conference. He highlighted the council’s commitment to affordable, high-quality solar panels and battery storage as key components of Essex’s climate strategy.
Two of Citizen Solar’s founders have been actively involved in powering down and capacity-building projects in Essex for just over two years, working closely with Community Energy Pathways, the organisers of the conference. Their experience has helped shape Citizen Solar’s mission and approach.
Maja Boznakova, one of the founding directors of Citizen Solar, said:
“We have spent two years organising pop-up energy clinics across Essex, giving free advice, referring people to other relevant agencies, and handing out energy efficiency equipment. We have also listened to numerous horror stories of cold and damp conditions, fuel debt, and people too frightened to put their heating on — from the most vulnerable sections of our communities.”
Citizen Solar’s mission is to develop community-led climate action through renewable energy projects that directly benefit Southend residents by reducing fuel poverty and promoting sustainability. By empowering local people to invest and participate, Citizen Solar aims to create lasting environmental and social impact.
John Booth, Founding Director and Operations Manager at Citizen Solar, added:
“The urgency of the climate crisis demands immediate, collective action. Citizen Solar is committed to delivering clean, affordable energy for Southend residents, but lasting change requires partnership. We call on Southend City Council, local businesses, and the third sector to join us in scaling community-owned renewable energy. Together, we can empower residents, reduce emissions, and build a resilient, low-carbon future for our community.”
The society invites local residents, businesses, and supporters to become members and join its community share offer, which will fund solar installations and related community energy projects.
