MEET THE TEAM
David Tudgey
Project Development Manager
Dave has been a very active member of the network since its conception. Having previously spent 12 years at Parsons Brinckerhoff he is now focusing all his energies on developing community energy projects. Through his part time role as project development officer he is helping coordinate existing projects and catalysing others. There is always a lot going on but do get in contact if you’ve an idea or better still want to get involved in an existing project to help make it happen!
Theresa Flanagan
Energy Help Desk and Community Building Lead
Theresa is passionate about community with an emphasis on a bottom-up approach supporting residents to be in control of how they use energy in their lives. She joined BEN to support the Energy Help Desk (EHD) projects an outreach facilitator whilst completing Urban Planning at UWE.
She works on co-ordinating and facilitating EHD and on our Mission Net Zero (MNZ) project, engaging people involved in and co-ordinating energy efficiency to support community buildings.
Oliver Swanston
Community Energy Manager
Oliver works on the development of community onshore wind projects across the West of England. He supports local communities and landowners interested in hosting community-owned wind turbines, helping guide projects from early conversations through to development by building trust, partnerships and local support
Katie Giddings
Social Media Analyst
Katie began her time at BEN as an intern and now coordinates our social media, content, and website. Alongside her work, she is studying for a Master’s in Environmental Policy at the University of Bristol. With a background in environmental education and community outreach, Katie enjoys finding creative ways to share BEN’s message and is passionate about connecting with communities across the city.
Tom Sollars
Energy Help Desk Facilitator
Tom is currently in the final year of his degree at UWE and is a fantastic member of our Help Desk team. He brings great energy and enthusiasm to his role, enjoying the opportunity to support people across the city with their energy-related queries. A proud Bristolian with a background in community engagement and a passion for wildlife conservation, Tom is dedicated to helping his local community through his work at BEN.
Lani Bond
Energy Help Desk Facilitator
Lani first got involved with the network as a volunteer on the Help Desk before joining the team as a staff member. She studied International Development for her undergraduate degree and brings a lot of professional experience from the energy sector. Lani is passionate about using what she knows to help people navigate energy challenges and is really committed to supporting the local community through her role at BEN.
Robert Smart
Support Officer
Robert has engaged over 80 domestic homes within the Bristol area in Thermal Imaging surveys. His expertise lies in improving the energy efficiency of homes and buildings. His role is primarily in supporting workshops on draught-proofing, such as our recent programme with the Centre for Sustainable Energy and Energy Tracers, Bristol Heat Pump Ready. Robert is a former Board member who has a deep passion for empowering individuals as part of the Just Transition.