Community energy projects involve groups of people coming together to purchase, manage, generate, or reduce consumption of energy. This includes (but is not limited to), solar panels, wind farms, hydro power, rural heat networks, electric vehicle charging points, car clubs and fuel poverty alleviation schemes.  Programmes are usually not-for-profit, and profits raised from projects are reinvested back into the communities which they power. Government recognises the role community groups play in our efforts to eliminate our contribution to climate change and offers a range of support to community energy projects. Community Energy Fund In addition to support for local government, government provides support to communities through the Community Energy Fund, which enables both rural and urban communities across England to access grant funding to develop local renewable energy projects for investment. The national Fund is a grant programme for community groups and eligible third sector organisations to develop projects from feasibility to commercialisation. The funding supports eligible community groups to consider options, design schemes and overcome barriers to investment. The programme is being delivered through our Local Net Zero Hubs and further information on applying for funding can be found on their individual websites:
Greater South East
South West
North East and Yorkshire
Midlands
North West
Projects supported by the Community Energy Fund We will update this list periodically as new funding is announced.
Community Energy Fund projects (July 2024)
The Community Energy Contact Group  As announced in the Net Zero Strategy, government has reintroduced the Community Energy Contact Group to further support community energy groups. This group provides a dedicated forum for community groups to engage with government.