A transformative £1.5 million grant from The National Lottery Climate Action Fund is set to empower community-led energy initiatives across Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES).
This three-year project sees civic partners from across the region, including Bath & North East Somerset Council, Bath & West Community Energy (BWCE), the University of Bath, and the Community Wellbeing Hub, come together with the aim of fostering a sustainable and inclusive energy future for the region.
Central to the initiative is the establishment of a Community Energy Network, coordinated by BWCE. This network will support the development of 5MW of community-owned renewable energy generation by 2030, working with six communities in B&NES to identify and develop renewable energy projects.
Additionally, a network of Home Energy Champions will be created, embedded within community groups, frontline services, and third-sector organisations. These champions will provide residents with advice on home energy efficiency, retrofitting, and renewable energy options through local events and home visits.
Two dedicated Energy Outreach Advisors, employed by Age UK and Citizens Advice and supported by the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE), will be based within the Community Wellbeing Hub. They will offer signposting and basic training for workers and volunteers to ensure residents can access available energy support. CSE will also provide training and ongoing support to the Home Energy Champions and energy outreach advisors.
This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of civic partners to address the climate crisis and promote the wellbeing of B&NES residents. By combining resources and expertise, the initiative aims to create a resilient, community-driven approach to energy sustainability.
For more information, visit the Bath & North East Somerset Council’s newsroom: Grant funding will help support community-led action on energy across B&NES.
This post is supported by the Future Ambition Board’s ‘A Greener Economy‘ working group.