We are delighted to announce a new £1m grant fund to support local authorities in the South West to reach their local climate ambitions.
The Local Net Zero Fund aims to increase the number, scale, and quality of net zero energy projects in the region and consists of three flexible grant pots to help councils investigate opportunities, unlock barriers, and get stalled projects moving.
Initiatives eligible for support by the fund include:
- Heat decarbonisation
- Buildings decarbonisation
- Renewable energy generation
- EV charging infrastructure
- Grid constraint solutions
- Green finance
The funding will be delivered by the Hub to local authorities and combined authorities within South West England and the Solent area.
Partnerships and projects that engage with local community organisations are encouraged. Local authorities can also work with the private sector to increase opportunities for future commercial investment.
Alongside the Fund, the Hub is offering a free Investment Readiness Assessment service which aims to provide a helpful roadmap for local authorities seeking external financing options. All local and combined authorities in our region can access this service, regardless of whether they are applying for a grant or not.
Jon Rattenbury, SWNZH Programme Manager said; “The Local Net Zero Fund aims to support South West councils to move forward on existing, new, and stalled projects, as well as progress strategic initiatives in the region. Together with expert advice from the Hub Team including the additional offer of our new Investment Readiness Support Service, we hope this package will help to increase the number, scale and quality of net zero projects in the region.”
The application window for the first funding round will close on Friday 15th March 2024. Further rounds will be subject to the availability of funds following allocation to successful projects from the first round.
For more information and to apply visit our Local Net Zero Fund webpage or contact LNZCDF@westofengland-ca.gov.uk
