Community Energy
What is Community Energy?
Community energy projects are developed and owned, wholly or partly, by local people for the benefit of their community.
Projects can include:
- Solar panels on community buildings
- Battery storage
- Energy efficiency improvements
- Renewable heating projects
- Community-owned wind, solar or hydro schemes
- Energy advice and fuel poverty support programmes
Why Get Involved?
Community energy can:
- Reduce energy costs
- Generate local income
- Support community facilities
- Increase local resilience
- Help tackle climate change
- Keep benefits within the community
Step 1: Find Local Interest
Start by talking to people in your community.
Questions to ask:
- What energy challenges do local people face?
- Are there community buildings with high energy bills?
- Is there interest in local renewable energy generation?
- Are there existing groups who may want to get involved?
You do not need to have all the answers before getting started.
Step 2: Form a group
Bring together a small team of interested residents, community organisations and local partners.
This could include:
- Residents
- Community groups
- Schools
- Faith organisations
- Your local council
- Local businesses
- Housing providers
Having a committed group makes it easier to develop ideas and access support.
Step 3: Seek Advice and Support
The Government's Local Power Plan and Great British Energy are developing support for local and community energy projects.
Support is expected to include:
- Advice and guidance
- Skills and training
- Development support
- Grants and loans
- Investment for project delivery
Communities are encouraged to engage early, even if projects are still at an early stage.
Step 4: Identify a Project
Start with a project that is achievable and meets a local need.
Examples include:
- Solar panels on a community centre or school
- Battery storage linked to a community building
- Community energy advice services
- Renewable energy projects that generate income for local priorities
Many successful community energy organisations started with a single building or small pilot project.
Further Steps:
- Step 5: Explore Feasibility
- Step 6: Develop a Business Case
- Step 7: Deliver the Project
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