Securing funding for local energy projects has never been more important. As organisations across the UK look to accelerate sustainability initiatives and meet ambitious net zero targets, new funding streams like the Great British Energy Community Fund (GBECF) are opening the door to real, community-focused impact.
This fund is a fantastic opportunity for organisations looking to decarbonise, lower energy costs, and support local economies. In this article, we’ll give you a clear overview of who’s eligible, what the funding can be used for, and how we can help you move your project forward.
Who is the Funding For?
The GBECF is designed for community organisations, public sector bodies, and businesses developing community-focused energy projects. It’s particularly relevant for public sector organisations and commercial enterprises aiming to decarbonise their operations or invest in renewable energy assets.
For many in the public sector, this fund arrives at a crucial time – especially following the recent announcement that Salix funding has closed to new applications. The GBECF offers an alternative route to keep vital net zero projects on track.
What Can the Funding Be Used For?
The fund is split into two key stages, helping projects move from concept through to being ready for investment or construction.
Stage 1
Stage 1 offers up to £40,000 to explore feasibility, making it ideal for early-stage concepts. This funding covers the essential groundwork you’ll later need to apply for Stage 2, such as:
- Feasibility studies (highly recommended to strengthen your application)
- Cost breakdowns
- Risk assessments
- Detailed project timelines
What’s Required to Apply?
While a basic feasibility study is optional, it’s strongly advised to have one in place along with a clear cost and delivery plan. We also recommend reaching out to your local Net Zero Hub for feedback ahead of submission – most successful applications to round one came from organisations that engaged early.
Stage 2
Stage 2 provides up to £100,000 to support installation costs, helping get asset-based projects ‘investment ready’ or ‘construction ready’. To be eligible, you’ll need to have already completed:
- Robust, detailed feasibility work
- Formal planning applications
- Contractor engagement and securing quotes
This stage ensures your project is fully prepared to move from planning to delivery.
What’s Required to Apply?
Stage 2 applications will need to include a comprehensive feasibility study, evidence of formal planning approval processes, and confirmed contractor involvement.
How We Can Help
At C3 Group, we can take care of every stage of the process – so you don’t have to navigate it alone. We handle:
- Feasibility studies tailored to your project
- Preparing and submitting planning applications
- Engaging contractors and gathering essential documentation
- Completing the full funding application form, and managing follow-up queries from funders
We’re here to make sure your project stands the best possible chance of success, while saving you time and resources.
If you’re exploring ways to reduce carbon emissions and deliver meaningful benefits to your community, the Great British Energy Community Fund is a fantastic opportunity. Get in touch with us today for a quick eligibility assessment or to discuss how we can support your application.
