Grant Peisley
Social Entrepreneur, Director, and Sustainable Communities Consultant in north Wales
I’m Grant Peisley—a social entrepreneur, strategist, and sustainability advocate based in North Wales, where community spirit runs deep and the future is built from the ground up.
Originally from Sydney, I carry with me the Aussie values of mateship and ‘a fair go’, which continue to shape my work in rural Wales. I believe that when people come together around shared values and common goals, they can create lasting change—especially in the face of climate challenges, economic pressures, and social isolation.
As a founding director of Datblygiadau Egni Gwledig (DEG), I help communities take the lead on energy efficiency, renewable generation, and local economic development. I’ve also helped launch several community-owned renewable energy projects across Wales, and co-founded Menter Ty’n Llan—a community enterprise that brought our village pub back into local hands.
My background in psychology and business gives me a unique lens on collaboration. I’m passionate about helping people connect meaningfully, work creatively, and solve problems together. I combine strategic thinking with practical delivery, always guided by fairness, public value, and the Well-being of Future Generations Act.
I currently serve on the boards of DEG, YnNi Teg, and YnNi Newydd, and work with Local Partnerships on the Welsh Government’s Ynni Cymru programme. I also co-chair the Net Zero Transition theme within the Rural Wales Local Policy and Innovation Partnership.
Recognised as a leader in sustainability and climate action, I was inducted into the Sustainable Academy Awards Wales Hall of Fame in 2018 and named Wales’ Climate Action Visionary Leader of the Year in 2025. I’ve shared my vision at TEDx Holyhead and regularly contribute to media, including S4C News and Radio Cymru, raising awareness around fuel poverty, climate change, and community resilience.
I’m also a proud member of my local cricket club—Chairman of Clwb Criced Caernarfon and a player for Wales Over 50s. Because leadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s about showing up, being part of something bigger, and keeping the spirit of community alive.
My mission is to expand my work into other essential services, championing sustainability, innovation, and grassroots empowerment. Because when communities own their future, they build resilience—and that’s where real transformation begins.