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New funding and support from Great British Energy is creating opportunities for VCFSE organisations across the North West to explore community energy projects, with a new VSNW briefing bringing together guidance and practical support.
Great British Energy has launched a new wave of funding and support for community energy projects, creating opportunities for communities and local organisations to develop and own clean energy projects.
There are new opportunities for VCFSE organisations across the North West to explore community energy projects, following the launch of Great British Energy’s new People’s Power programme.
Announced on 17 September, the programme includes a £20 million Community Fund to help community organisations across England, Wales and Northern Ireland test, develop and build community-owned clean energy assets. A further £5 million Partnerships Grant will support joint projects between local authorities and community energy organisations in England.
Projects could include solar panels on community buildings, wind energy, battery storage, low-carbon heat and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
For community organisations, this could create new opportunities to develop projects that respond to local energy needs while generating wider benefits for their communities.
Getting a community energy project off the ground can take time and there are different sources of advice and support available.
The North West Net Zero Hub supports organisations across the region to identify, develop and implement energy projects. As part of its work with Great British Energy, the Hub is supporting the development of applications to the Great British Energy Community Fund and is encouraging community organisations to make contact early, including those that are still developing their ideas.
There is also Community Energy GO, which provides free, tailored support to community groups across England developing early-stage renewable energy and low-carbon projects.
Support can include helping groups shape an idea, build their knowledge and confidence, explore whether a project is viable and work towards a fundable project. Community Energy GO also supports groups preparing applications for Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the Great British Energy Community Energy Fund.
If your organisation is interested in exploring community energy, you don’t need to have a fully developed project before seeking support.
The North West Net Zero Hub encourages early engagement, including where organisations are still developing ideas, exploring local opportunities or identifying potential partners.
Community Energy GO can also provide advice and practical support at the early stages of developing a project.
We’ve brought information about these opportunities together in a new briefing for the VCFSE sector, including:
If you’re considering whether community energy could be relevant to your organisation or community, the briefing is a useful place to start. It also signposts further support available across the North West, including Greater Manchester and Liverpool City Region.
