How we’re turning local feedback into action in Ceredigion.
Ahead of our first round of public consultation on the plans for Waun Hesgog Energy Park, we asked communities around Talybont and Aberystwyth to share their views on how our proposed £1.8 million annual Community Benefit Fund for the Energy Park could best support the local area.
More than 600 people took part – sharing valuable feedback on local priorities. Top themes included:
- improving transport links across Ceredigion,
- creating more opportunities for young people,
- and supporting heritage and small businesses.
Building on this feedback, our Community Investment Team used the survey results to reach out and meet the local projects and organisations that were flagged as potential beneficiaries of a future grant fund.
Visits included Aberystwyth University, a local educational organisation, Ceredigion County Council, a volunteer organisation, and youth service in the area – covering the team’s key themes of:
- education,
- cost of living,
- health and recreation,
- environment and culture,
- and employability.
While Waun Hesgog Energy Park is still in its early stages -with the first round of consultation having closed in autumn 2025 – these conversations are ensuring we start engagement long before turbines turn.
“The response we’ve had from people across Ceredigion and Powys has been really valuable,” said Eluned, Community Investment Team Manager. “The survey gave us a strong sense of what matters most locally – from improving transport and supporting young people, to protecting local heritage and helping small businesses thrive.
“Meeting face-to-face with organisations across mid Wales has helped bring those priorities to life. It’s shown us that early engagement really does make a difference, ensuring that our future Community Benefit Fund is shaped by the people who know the area best. This is just the start of an ongoing conversation – one that will continue as Waun Hesgog Energy Park moves forward.”
Plans in motion for 2026
The people and projects offered exciting initial ideas of how we could support including setting up a mini ‘mock’ consultation event with Aberystwyth University students to demonstrate how a key part of the planning process works. Team members believe there might be volunteering opportunities for our Bute Energy staff to take part in. We’ll also follow up on conversations with the Council around recreation opportunities.
What’s next for Waun Hesgog Energy Park?
The first round of consultation (also known as a non-statutory consultation) closed earlier this year (2025), and we’ll now be reviewing all feedback as we refine the design of the park. Our next stage of consultation is expected in spring 2026, when we’ll share our revised proposals and continue our conversations with local residents before submitting an application to the Welsh Government for approval.
Key facts – Waun Hesgog Energy Park
- Location: Around 17km north-east of Aberystwyth, extending into Ceredigion and Powys
- Proposed capacity: Up to 248MW (37 turbines)
- Power equivalent: Around 176,000 homes per year
- CO₂ savings: 249,000 tonnes annually
- Expected annual Community Benefit Fund: £1.8 million
- Next consultation: Spring 2026
Interested in learning more?
We’re proud of our approach to Community Investment – we’re guided by the insight the public nearest our energy parks give us. About where they live, what matters to them and what they want the future to look like.
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