Distribution network operator Electricity North West (ENW) has launched a new £75,000 community energy fund.
The ‘Powering our Communities Fund’ will take applications from community groups aiming to tackle energy-related issues at a local level.
The fund forms part of ENW’s community and local energy strategy, launched earlier this year, which is intended to support community energy projects. The DNO said the strategy was triggered by the results of a recent survey which found that just 2% of nearly 1,500 people were actively participating in a community energy group.
“The energy landscape is rapidly changing and we know that community energy is going to play a vital role in facilitating the transition to a low carbon future for the North West.
“We’re delighted to be launching the Powering our Communities Fund to help support local community energy groups and the great work they do in reducing fuel poverty and providing a greener and smarter energy supply,” Helen Seagrave, community energy manager at ENW, said.
Community energy groups can apply for up to £15,000 in funding for projects which either engage local communities in energy issues and energy efficiency; support vulnerable customers or reduce fuel poverty; or develop low carbon energy projects.
Applications are open until 19 December and funding decisions will be made by February 2019.
Further details on the fund and how to apply can be found here.
