Government puts £1bn behind community energy

Community energy is back in the spotlight as the UK government announces plans to make up to £1bn available for locally owned green‑energy projects. Delivered through GB Energy, the funding is expected to support around 1,000 schemes nationwide, from Solar PV on public buildings to small wind, hydro and shared battery storage. For many rural areas, it opens the door to cheaper local power and the chance to reinvest benefits into transport, community buildings or affordable housing.

Community energy groups across the UK continue to grow, and councils are increasingly exploring publicly owned energy models. Sector leaders have welcomed the funding, noting its potential to help more projects progress if grid capacity can keep pace.

For communities looking to take control of their energy future, this could be a pivotal moment. East Green Energy is ready to support groups and landowners exploring what’s possible and help turn early ideas into viable projects.