We are pleased to announce that the submission deadline for applications for the third round of funding for the Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund is March the 6th 2025. The decision panel will review all applications submitted before this deadline in April 2025.

Our £1.5 million fund is dedicated to supporting and enabling community-led energy projects through a variety of grants and loans. Established with contributions from Ameresco and Vattenfall, the fund aims to accelerate the decarbonisation of Bristol while providing valuable support to local initiatives.

The Community Energy Fund focuses on projects that will:
– Reduce the use of fossil fuels
– Encourage energy consumption reduction within the community
– Enable communities to connect with the Bristol heat network

We invite applications from all VCSE organisations across Bristol, especially those that have not yet engaged in energy projects or applied for funding. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact and drive change in your local area. If you cannot submit your application by March 6th, do not worry! Our fourth funding round will open on March 7th.

In the last two rounds of funding, more than £315,000 in grants has been awarded to help local communities decarbonise. A diverse array of community organisations are benefiting, including Windmill Hill City Farm, Woodlands Church Family, BS3 Community Development, SS Great Britain Trust, and many others. Their projects cover a variety of initiatives, such as conducting feasibility studies on energy generation and retrofitting, installing solar panels, and implementing a school programme that empowers young people to learn about climate change and reduce their school’s carbon footprint.

Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund Case Study:

 

The Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund is part of our commitment to delivering social value and advancing decarbonisation across the city. The fund supports a wide range of community energy projects, including low-carbon building improvements, renewable energy installations, and initiatives to reduce energy consumption. Any profits generated from our loans will be reinvested into the fund to enable future initiatives.

For more information on how to apply and the benefits of this funding opportunity, please visit https://www.bristolcityleap.co.uk/community/community-energy-fund/.

Do not miss your chance to be part of a sustainable future for Bristol!