EcoEnergyFair 2025 brings Wetherby together for a climate conscious future

Organised by the Boston Spa, Wetherby and Villages Community Green Group, Wetherby Methodist, u3a and St James Church, the event showcased practical ways to reduce energy use, cut waste, and support local initiatives.

Stalls, workshops, and expert talks offered inspiration and hands-on advice, from home energy improvements to community-led solar projects.

“It was amazing to share ideas and hear about the variety of local initiatives that are saving people money and helping our community to become more sustainable," said Adrian Balcombe, Chair of the Boston Spa, Wetherby & Villages Community Green Group.

"There was a real buzz about the event, with a regular stream of people visiting from our community. Thanks to our hosts, collaborators, speakers, exhibitors and supporters.

"More details following the event can be found on our website bostongreengroup.co.uk.”

The fair was timed between Prince William’s Earthshot Prize and COP30, linking local action to global climate ambition.

“It was great to see so much interest in how to save the planet," commented Robert Haskins from St James’ Parish Church, one of the event’s key collaborators.

"This fair was staged between Prince William's Earthshot Prize and COP30, when almost 200 countries meet.

"As he says, ‘Actions or lack of them will shape forever the trajectory of our planet... Progress is possible.”

A Wetherby Methodist spokesperson added that the event was a great collaborative effort, resulting in a really interesting and thought-provoking day.

"It was very encouraging to see and hear about all the initiatives taking place to green the local area,” they added.

Keynote speaker Brenda Ainsley, from The Climate Reality Project (Europe), inspired attendees with her talk on climate justice and collective action.

Brenda went onto say: “I was delighted to be invited as keynote speaker at the Eco Energy Fair.

"This was a perfectly organised and impactful event, with many interested and engaged participants.”

Keith Jackson shared the results of the Boston Spa Energy Efficiency Trial and attendees were delighted to know that their bills had been reduced by about three per cent - without them having to do anything.

Keith said: “The project has been a resounding success and 15,000 customers in Wetherby and local villages will continue to get the benefits.”

The project, named Boston Spa Energy Efficiency Trial (BEET), went live in January 2024 and Northern Powergrid uses its specially developed BEET-Box technology to safely optimise the network voltage for around 15,000 homes and businesses in the trial area.

Keith is now pressing for widespread adoption across the whole of Northern Powergrid region and across the UK which would deliver annual customer savings of £770m.

Updates from St James’, Wetherby Methodist and Monk Fryston Community Energy regarding their low carbon journey were also shared during the day.

Ray Newton of Monk Fryston said: “‘The day had something for anyone who is interested in either saving money - and who isn’t - or mitigating climate change without changing their lifestyles. It was a real eye opener. Well done to the organisers.”

The day also featured a craft thrift sale run by Tadcrafters, offering fabrics, yarns, and creative supplies at bargain prices — encouraging reuse and sustainable crafting.

A spokesperson added: "It was wonderful to see so many people attending the event and encouraging to hear about all the different activities and businesses available in the local area with a focus on sustainability.”

Penny Stables, Founder of the Boston Spa, Wetherby & Villages Community Green Group said it was an excellent event.

"With a steady stream of people through the door, there was lots of good engagement and a very warm, buzzy atmosphere."

With strong attendance and enthusiasm throughout the day, the EcoEnergyFair underscored the power of local action to make a difference to households across our communities.