Community groups, town and parish councils, charities, sports clubs, faith groups, and similar organisations can now access vital funding for clean energy projects.
What’s on Offer?
In the 2025/26 financial year, the UK government has allocated £5 million through the newly rebranded Great British Energy Community Fund (GBECF) formerly known as the Community Energy Fund, to help kickstart local, clean energy initiatives.
This fund is designed to support feasibility and development stages of community energy projects—such as solar PV, wind, battery storage, rural heat networks, EV infrastructure, and moreso local communities can lead the energy transition.
Who Can Apply?
The GBECF is open to a diverse range of community-focused organisations, including:
-
Town and parish councils
-
Charities, community interest companies (CICs), sports clubs
-
Faith groups and other registered bodies
Recipients must ensure the energy generated directly benefits local communities—and projects must be majority community-owned.
Funding Breakdown: Two Stages
Stage 1 – Feasibility Grant
Up to £40,000 to cover consultancy, technical assessments, and feasibility studies needed to shape your project.
Stage 2 – Development Grant
Once you’ve proven the concept is viable, you could receive up to £100,000 (and in some regions, up to £140,000) for next steps such as planning, environmental assessments, legal fees, and business plans.
Why It Matters
This fund is a powerful way to:
-
Empower communities to lead local energy projects
-
Unlock private investment for clean energy infrastructure
-
Support regional jobs, enhance energy independence, and boost community resilience
How to Apply & Key Dates
Applications are managed regionally through the Net Zero Hubs. Each region varies slightly in timing and support style, so contacting your local hub early is strongly recommended.
For example:
-
North East & Yorkshire: Applications are open until 12 November 2025.
Other regions may be open or planning upcoming rounds—reach out to your regional hub to join the pipeline.
Need a Hand?
Community Energy England and local hub partners often offer webinars, downloadable presentations, and direct support to guide your application.
Summary Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Funding (2025/26) | £5 million |
| Eligible Applicants | Local councils, charities, CICs, sports clubs, faith groups, and similar bodies |
| Funding Options | Stage 1: up to £40,000 (feasibility) / Stage 2: up to £100,000–£140,000 (development) |
| Project Types | Solar, wind, EV charging, heat networks, batteries, rural energy systems, etc. |
| Application Route | Via regional Net Zero Hubs |
| Deadline Example | North East & Yorkshire: 12 November 2025 |
| Why It Matters | Unlocks clean energy investment, community ownership, local benefits |
Go Low Carbon’s Role: Simplifying Your Community Energy Journey
Applying for GBECF funding can feel daunting—but we’re here to make the process seamless and set your project up for success.
Here’s how Go Low Carbon can help:
-
Technical advisory – we’ll help interpret eligibility criteria, audit requirements, and documentation to strengthen your application.
-
Solar quote upfront – know your installation cost, ROI, and potential savings before applying, giving you confidence in your numbers.
-
Turn-key project delivery – from design to installation, we ensure your system goes live smoothly, funded and ready.
Ready to take the next step?
Fill in the form below to get in touch with us about your project and explore how the Great British Energy Community Fund can help bring it to life.
