Great British Energy (GBE) is the UK’s publicly owned clean energy company, established to help accelerate the transition to home-grown renewable energy and ensure communities share in the benefits of the move to net zero. It aims to support investment in clean power, strengthen energy security, create skilled local jobs and help deliver long-term economic growth.

Working with communities, local authorities and partners across the country, Great British Energy is helping to unlock new opportunities for renewable energy generation, energy efficiency and local energy projects that can reduce carbon emissions while delivering lasting benefits for local people.

New Funding Launched, September 2026

Local Net Zero Hubs across England are supporting communities and local government organisations to access the latest round of grant funding from Great British Energy.

The GBE Community Funds will support project development and capital investment for community energy projects.

In previous years Local Net Zero Hubs have administered Community Energy Funds on behalf of Department of Energy Security and Net Zero.

The administration of funds will now be managed through a national portal, but Hubs will continue to play an active role to support communities in their region of England through the grant application process with tailored advice.

Guidance documents can be found at the bottom of this page. 

Note: Applications will be taken until 12 November 2026.

GBE Community Fund

• Funding for community organisations set up to run energy projects for local benefit.
• Funding is available at three stages:
  • Stage 1: Feasibility. Up to £40,000 to test whether your project idea is viable.
  • Stage 2: Development. Up to £100,000 to turn a viable idea into an investment-ready project.
  • Stage 3: Capital. Up to £3 million, or 50% of total project value, to help a construction-ready project bridge remaining funding gaps.
• You must be a legally constituted, incorporated community organisation and your project must be designed to be at least 50% community owned when operational.
• Eligible organisations include community benefit societies, community interest companies, co-operative societies, development trusts and registered charities.

Applications to the Community Fund can be made here

GBE Partnerships Grant

• Funding for local authorities in England currently working with a Community Energy Group or wanting to work with one.
• Funding is available at two stages:
  • Stage 1: Partnership formation and feasibility. Up to £40,000 to form your partnership and test whether a project is viable.
  • Stage 2: Development. Up to £100,000 to take a project that has proven feasible into detailed development.
• The local authority is the lead applicant. You must be a local authority in England, applying with a community energy group that provides a letter of support. This does not need to be a an existing partnership.

Applications for the Partnerships Grant can be made here

How can we help?

• Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest announcements
• Contact us at communityenergyfund@nottinghamcity.gov.uk for support and if you have any questions