Nottingham City Council has announced the acceptance of a £2 million grant to launch the Community Energy Fund.
The funding, allocated over two years, comes from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), which the government says is a commitment to community-led energy solutions and carbon reduction initiatives.
The Scope of the Grant
The decision document outlines the Council’s plan to accept £1 million for the current financial year and an additional £1 million for the next year. This allocation will empower the Midlands Net Zero Hub, a division within the Council, to spearhead the creation, design, and implementation of the Community Energy Fund.
Strategic Allocation and Management of Funds
Of the £2 million total, £200,000 is earmarked for the Midlands Net Zero Hub and the Environmental Services (ES) Division to manage the programme. The Hub noted for its track record in project development and execution, is expected to drive significant revenue for the Council while creating numerous opportunities across the region.
A cornerstone of this initiative is the emphasis on community involvement. The fund will award grants to eligible community groups, fostering local engagement in energy projects. These projects are not only poised to contribute to Nottingham’s carbon neutrality target but also stimulate economic activity within the region.
The decision also suggests the continuation of the Principal Rural Energy Projects Officer role, vital for the successful delivery of the programme. This position would be funded by the grant.
The Council’s decision to accept this grant aligns with the DESNZ’s goal of using community energy initiatives as economic stimulants and key contributors to the UK’s carbon net-zero ambitions. This move is particularly significant in light of the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership’s Energy Strategy, further aligning regional efforts with national objectives.
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