Lewisham Community Energy Fund returns to help local communities cut carbon and lower energy bills
Originally launched in 2019, the Community Energy Fund is back with grants of up to £10,000. Community and voluntary groups, including cooperatives, faith and equalities groups, social enterprises, and schools, are encouraged to apply if they have projects that generate renewable energy, reduce fuel consumption, and promote awareness about energy efficiency.
The previous funding cycle has already made a positive impact on the local community. Several projects across Lewisham have already benefitted, including Climate Action Lewisham who were able to fund outreach work to improve understanding of the Climate Emergency across the borough. Additionally, Sydenham Gardens used the funds to install equipment to improve their energy efficiency.
Steve Prowse, Business & Premises Manager at Sydenham Garden said:
“We were very grateful to benefit from the first round of the Lewisham Community Energy Fund in 2019. The application process was easy to follow and straightforward to complete. The grant we received enabled us to build on our sustainability credentials by installing a replacement Air Source Heat Pump along with a new PV solar array on the roof.”
South East London Community Energy (SELCE) collaborates with Lewisham Council, providing impartial advice services to organisations aiming for greater sustainability, with some awarded funding in 2019.
Dr Giovanna Speciale, CEO SELCE said:
“So many of our community venues are struggling with escalating energy costs. The Lewisham Community Energy Fund enables them to reduce their costs and make environmentally responsible changes. As a result of the previous fund, SELCE was able to support four schools to access solar electricity or LED retrofit both bringing benefits terms of costs and carbon.”
Councillor Louise Krupski, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Action said:
“I am delighted to see the Lewisham Community Energy Fund return. Since our Climate Emergency declaration in 2019, we've made good progress towards improving energy efficiency in the borough and support a shift towards renewable energy.
“However, the Council cannot achieve this work alone - it is crucial to empower the community to get involved too. The COVID-19 pandemic and current energy crisis have heightened the risk of fuel poverty in our communities and this fund provides a crucial opportunity to support vulnerable individuals and organisations to play their part.”
Read the full eligibility criteria and apply.