“We’re saving the world, even though we’re a bit behind the schedule” is the fundamental mission of Gwent Energy, a community interest company based in South Wales. Founded by Phil Powell in 2008, the not-for-profit firm assists organizations, communities, SMEs, and individuals in reducing electricity bills by minimizing carbon emissions and choosing environmentally friendly solutions.
Gwent Energy’s team consists of six people, all unwaveringly devoted to making a positive impact on the planet. In the past 15 years, Phil and his team were able to install over 400 Solar systems for homes, communities, and businesses. Additionally, Gwent Energy provided battery storage and vehicle charging services to numerous local residents.
Gwent Energy’s Wales Energy Efficiency Awards
Since its establishment, Gwent Energy has encountered many hurdles and obstacles. For instance, COVID-19 and Brexit brought an end to significant funding from various sources. Another major issue for Phil is the lack of skilled specialists, apprenticeships, and available job roles. With a clear direction and commitment to slowing down climate change, Gwent Energy’s team steadfastly persevered through all the challenges and has been widely recognized for its efforts.
Gwent Energy has been awarded by Wales Energy Efficiency Awards multiple times and won in the Small Project of the Year category in 2022 for the Zero Carbon House project. In the same year, Gwent Energy was commended as a vulnerable customer support organization and an energy consultancy. Additionally, Phil Powell was commended as a business development manager/director. In previous years, Wales Energy Efficiency Awards honored Gwent Energy for multiple other endeavors, including the 2018 Salem Solar Battery project, and the 2023 Llanarth Sports Club Energy system.
The Ebenezer Baptist Church and Community Center in Gwent Valleys
“Among many completed projects, the work Gwent Energy did for the Ebenezer Baptist Church and Community Center in Gwent Valleys is near and dear to my heart,” added Phil. Ebenezer Baptist Church is a friendly and welcoming community that runs a foodbank, provides hearing aid battery replacements, and improves the South Welsh community. By installing a 10kWp Solar PV system, and a 10kWh battery storage, the organization reduced their electricity bill from £300 to £70 per month, presenting a significant 77% decrease.
Now committed to implementing sustainable solutions for Welsh people and communities, Phil used to work in the oil industry. After realizing the Earth needs urgent care, Phil started partaking in energy-efficient community projects, eventually establishing Gwent Energy. “After completing my BSc in environmental science, I realized we have about 50 years before we’re extinct. This is why my team is committed to providing environmentally friendly solutions to communities, schools, businesses, and houses in South Wales. My dream is to save the entire world, but all I can do for now is improve the world around me and inspire young generations to join me on this mission,” expresses Phil.
Media Contact
Name: Phil Powell
Email: [email protected]
