2024 has been a pivotal year for Bridge Hydro, as we've made significant strides to turn our vision into reality. With the Thames as our anchor and the strength of our community behind us, we’re taking action to help address the climate emergency. What started as a ripple of an idea is now gathering momentum, and we’re excited to share some key milestones from this year:
In April, founding Bridge Hydro members Rob and Pete made a guest appearance on Marlow FM’s weekly environmental show, where they shared the Bridge Hydro story and explained the ambition to address the climate emergency, and the potential of hydropower generation as a sustainable energy source, to a wider audience.
May saw our one-page feature in The Marlowvian magazine, sparking further dialogue about our purpose and mission within the community.
In July, we had the opportunity to present to the Marlow Chamber of Commerce, who aim to protect, promote, and enhance the local business community and to foster collaboration with local businesses to ensure a united approach to building a sustainable future for the community.
In September, the team hosted a stand at Marlow’s annual carnival, allowing us to engage directly with the community. This included time spent with our local MP, the Right Hon. Joy Morrissey who, as Shadow Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero, was interested to hear about our project. The positive feedback we received was encouraging, and the conversations highlighted key areas of concern and interest. This event was invaluable in shaping our approach, ensuring that the project aligns with the priorities and values of local residents. Community engagement remains central to everything we do, and events like this help bridge the gap between vision and reality.
In November, the team travelled to France to meet with a new potential technology supplier whose solutions align closely with the unique needs of Marlow and Bisham. We continue to explore our options and keep an open mind, in order to find the right technology to suit the weir and so helping protect the unique character of our local area, whilst maximising the efficiency and output of the generation scheme and protecting the unique character of our local area.
This December, we also had the privilege of presenting to the University of the Third Age, sharing our vision with an engaged audience of lifelong learners. This presentation was not only an opportunity to inform but also to inspire and gather insights from a diverse and experienced group.
We continue to engage with other like-minded people, such as the Reading Hydro team, to learn more from their experience of delivering a community hydropower scheme. In addition, we’ve continued close engagement and work with key groups such as MaidEnergy, Marlow Energy Group, and Transition Town Marlow. Having good relationships with like-minded organisations has enriched our approach. Together, we are building a stronger, more collaborative response to the climate emergency.
Engaging with Marlow Town Council and Bisham Parish Council has been another key achievement this year. Keeping the councils informed and aware of the project's development is pivotal in laying the groundwork for long-term support and collaboration.
We are also currently in the process of applying for establishment as a Community Benefit Scheme (CBS), which establishes our purpose to operate for the direct benefit of the community. As a not-for-profit organisation driven by community passion and determination, Bridge Hydro is committed to making a tangible contribution to reducing our community’s CO2 emissions. This step is more than just an administrative process - it’s a commitment to reinvest profits back into further local projects, ensuring that the benefits of hydropower are felt by everyone in the community.
Reflecting on the progress we’ve made, we’re filled with gratitude for the support and enthusiasm of the Marlow and Bisham communities and surrounding areas. Your engagement, feedback, and encouragement have been essential in shaping our journey. As we move into 2025, we ask for your help to support Bridge Hydro in our mission to reduce CO2 emissions and build a bigger sustainable energy future for Marlow, Bisham, and surrounding communities. The climate emergency requires all of us to act now. Please share our story, attend our events, and encourage local leaders and decision-makers to support Bridge Hydro and prioritise sustainable initiatives.
A Happy New Year everyone.
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