On the 9th September, Tevi’s Vicky Smyth interviewed Chris Coonick from WREN (Wadebridge Renewable Energy Network), Amanda Forman (Planet A Solutions) and David Bowers (BP Group Technology) as part of our ‘in conversation with’ series. The interactive Q&A session was moderated by Vicky Smyth and aimed to reconcile best practice approaches.

The ‘in conversation with’ series aims to facilitate knowledge transfer between SMEs, policymakers, experts in Cornwall and expert guests beyond the county. The interviews are designed to address topical issues and stimulate debate to develop effective solutions to combat Cornwall’s challenges in environmental growth and circular economy. This interactive session brought together expert practitioners to discuss cutting-edge developments in the low carbon energy sector.

Chris Coonick is the Technical Director for Wadebridge Renewable Energy Network (WREN) a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers. WREN is focused on improving the energy efficiency of homes and businesses around Wadebridge and on being a catalyst for economic resilience. Since starting in 2014, the organisation has assisted with 104 installation of solar PV producing enough energy to power 1,120 homes. 61 homes have been fitted with renewable heat installations, producing enough to heat 279 homes. The organisation now has over 1,200 voluntary members. WREN’s target is to ultimately generate 100% of Wadebridge’s electricity from local renewable sources.

Amanda Forman is the Executive Director of Planet A Solutions, a community interest company focused on the conception, development, and implementation of solutions for energy users. Planet A provides business cases for technical challenges, conducts resource assessments to analyse energy usage and inefficiencies, and provide knowledge of bespoke renewable solutions.

David Bowers is an analyst within BP Group Technology, providing strategic insights regarding regional energy systems and power generation techniques. He researches new and alternative forms of energy for potential investment and measures to mitigate the harmful impacts of traditional energy production. He is also involved in energy system modelling.

The discussion first centre