Borth, Ceredigion – 9 June 2025: A groundbreaking solar panel project that powers a GP surgery in Ceredigion was the backdrop for a significant conversation on Wales' sustainable future, as First Minister Eluned Morgan and Future Generations Commissioner Derek Walker visited the coastal town of Borth.
The visit, which coincided with World Environment Day on 5 June, took place at the Star of the Sea, a cultural venue and a shining example of community-led sustainable development. The site hosts renewable energy infrastructure that generates clean electricity not only for the venue itself but also for the neighbouring medical practice showcasing how grassroots initiatives can power essential services.
The solar energy project was supported through technical expertise and grant funding from the Welsh Government Energy Service. It stands as a practical demonstration of how local efforts can contribute to national goals on climate resilience and public service sustainability.
During their visit, Eluned Morgan and Derek Walker met with community leaders from the Borth 2030 initiative and representatives from Community Energy Wales. Together, they discussed strategies for accelerating community action on climate change and scaling up similar projects across Wales.
“What we have seen in Borth today demonstrates exactly how communities across Wales can lead the way on climate action,” said First Minister Eluned Morgan. “These local renewable energy projects aren't just tackling climate change – they are bringing communities together and cutting costs for vital services.”
Referring to the recently published Future Generations Report, she added: “The Future Generations Report shows we have made progress in many areas, but there's much more we need to do. By listening to communities and supporting local innovation, we can build a Wales that truly works for future generations while addressing immediate challenges like the cost of living and climate emergencies.”
The Future Generations Commissioner also used the occasion to call for increased support for community energy initiatives. He urged the Welsh Government to double its targets for community-owned energy generation and to make more resources available to local groups aiming to develop renewable energy projects.
“Local power, owned and run by communities, can be the key to solving Wales’ future energy needs,” said Derek Walker. “The projects in Borth show how community action on climate change is helping Wales become more energy-resilient, supporting services like the NHS, and creating local jobs.”
The visit to Borth highlighted the tangible benefits of investing in community-led climate action from reducing energy bills and carbon emissions to strengthening local services and empowering residents. As discussions continue around scaling up such efforts, Borth stands as a compelling model for what’s possible when policy and community ambition align.
