Summary
Our Cow Molly is a fourth-generation family dairy farm west of Sheffield, with an ambition to create a community-owned clean energy scheme that decarbonises their operations while creating a long-term financial stake for local people.
The project has two phases. Phase 1 includes a 200kWp rooftop solar PV system and a 33kWp anaerobic digester, both generating electricity for use on-site. Phase 2, covering wind generation and green hydrogen, is a future ambition planned for from the outset.
The Stage 1 feasibility study concluded that the project is investable and ready for development. Pure Leapfrog led the financial modelling, working through legal structures, share capital options, and what it would take to make the project genuinely attractive to community investors.
Who are we working with?
The project is a collaboration between SY Ecofit CIC, Our Cow Molly Dairy Ltd, Sheffield Energy Works, Pure Leapfrog, and other partners. The farm acts as both host and electricity user, with land rights already secured. The feasibility work also involved the local distribution network operator, planning authorities, and early community engagement to build support and identify future investors. It was funded by the Community Energy Fund through the North East and Yorkshire Local Net Zero Hub.
“Pure Leapfrog brought deep sector expertise and took the time to really work through legal structures and share capital options with us. Combined with their excellent financial modelling, this collaborative approach was invaluable in building a solid plan for our ‘ReMooable Energy’ farm decarbonisation project. We’ve now set up a Community Benefit Society and will be launching our first community share offer soon!”
Jonathan Hind, Director. SY Ecofit CIC (December 2025)
What problem are we trying to solve?
The farm wanted to eliminate its direct and indirect carbon emissions, including on-site fuel use and purchased electricity, without relying on subsidies or overly complex revenue arrangements. The wider goal was to demonstrate that a working farm could host a community energy scheme that is technically sound, financially viable, and worth investing in.
How are we doing this?
The feasibility study assessed technical options, planning requirements, grid connection, and financial viability. Energy modelling confirmed the assets could be installed without grid reinforcement. Financial modelling tested capital costs, borrowing scenarios, and load matching. Legal and governance structures were explored to ensure the project could attract investment and protect long-term asset value. The study also examined how Phase 1 could support and de-risk Phase 2, including potential for cashflow recycling and investor retention.
What is the innovation?
This project shows how a working farm can host a community-owned energy scheme that is technically sound, financially viable, and socially beneficial. The innovation lies in combining solar PV and anaerobic digestion within existing infrastructure, and structuring the project to maximise investor confidence and community returns, without relying on subsidies or complex market mechanisms.
What did we learn?
Phase 1 is independently viable and investable, with planning and permitting already in place. Financial modelling shows a strong internal rate of return (IRR) with payback within 16 years. Community benefit is built into the operating model, with baseline contributions factored into running costs rather than dependent on surplus. The structure allows for reinvestment and future scaling, with Phase 1 providing a clear foundation and pathway to Phase 2.
What’s next?
SY Ecofit secured a Community Energy Fund grant to progress Stage 2 and has established Sheffield Energy Works Limited, a Community Benefit Society, to enable residents across the Sheffield City Region to invest in and own clean energy assets, through a community share offer. The share offer is currently live- more info is available on the Sheffield Energy Works website.
