Isabella Hawkes

I am a PhD candidate funded by the SWDTP on their ‘Sustainable Futures’ pathway. My research is titled “Mapping diverse engagements with energy in Cornwall, UK” and explores the diverse ways in which citizens engage with, and in, energy systems. It aims to reflect how citizens are both deeply affected by these systems and have important roles to play in contributing to future transitions.

Prior to joining University of Exeter, I worked in public engagement roles within the conservation and community energy sectors. This included coordinating and facilitating workshops, talks, and events, managing digital and print communications and facilitating strategic workshops with community energy groups.

Currently I am a Commissioner for the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Climate Commission as well as an advisor and collaborator for Cornwall's Local Area Energy Plan Community Conversations. I have held advisory roles for various research projects including on Community Energy, Public Engagement and Co-production. Most recently, I completed a secondment to the Dept of Energy Security and Net Zero and Great British Energy establishing their 'Local' function, focusing on Community Energy, Benefits and Shared Ownership.

Professional Background

Communications & Impact Coordinator - Communities for Renewables

Communications & Research Assistant - Freelance

Community Engagement & Fundraising - Cornwall Wildlife Trust

Education

MSc Environmental Science - University of East Anglia

BA English & Related Literature - University of York

Research Interests

Science and Technology Studies

Coproduction

Public engagement

UK energy transitions

Just transitions

Deliberative democracy

Creative engagement

Research Groups

Energy Geographies Research Group

Environment and Sustainability