The Great British Energy Community Fund has an allocation of £1m in 2025/26 for community energy projects in the South West. The fund is now open for applications in Round 2.
The aim of the funding is to:
- increase the level of community and locally-owned renewable and low-carbon energy assets
- support communities to reduce energy costs or generate income through community-owned energy assets
- promote growth through the creation of jobs and volunteering opportunities in the areas where projects are located
For this round, the funding is for community energy asset projects only, such as renewable or low carbon energy, battery storage or electric vehicle infrastructure. You can apply for up £40,000 for a feasibility study (Stage 1 grant) or up to £100,000 for project development (Stage 2 grant). Grants are not available for capital works, equipment or service delivery.
Applications based on single buildings will only be eligible if they create an asset that benefits the community beyond meeting the building’s own energy need.
Applications will be accepted from a range of not-for-profit organisations including CIOs, CBSs, CICs, co-operative societies, development trusts, registered charities, social housing providers and town or parish councils. Projects should be designed to be at least 50% community-owned.
Funds must be allocated by March 2026.
Focus of fund/fund aims:
Funding for the feasibility or development costs of community-owned low-carbon energy assets
Application deadline:
3 November 2025
Fund description:
https://www.swnetzerohub.org.uk/what-we-do/community-energy/community-energy-fund/