What are the benefits of a community energy project?

Community energy has huge potential in reducing our emissions and helping us reach net zero. Community-owned renewable energy projects can help to decarbonise the UK’s energy system by generating clean, low carbon electricity that feeds into the grid. There are all sorts of other benefits too, and because the projects are owned by the community, these benefits are felt locally.

While the shift to community-led renewable energy schemes will require support from Government, businesses, and householders alike, it’s worth the investment. The total community-owned electricity generation capacity across the UK is 331 MW, which equates to a growth rate of 2.4% in 2021, down from 5% in 2020.

Across the UK, 81 community energy organisations reported one or more stalled projects – 65% more than in 2020. The majority of these were electricity generation with a total potential capacity of 68 MW. The number of stalled projects has also increased by 32% in 2021.

To support community energy projects to find funding, we’ve pulled together a list of grants that are available both in the Midlands and across the country.

Inspired to start your own community energy project? Find out what you could achieve by taking a look at the feasibility studies of projects supported through the Rural Community Energy Fund.