Creating a Community Energy Network
Community Energy SouthCommunity Energy South are supporting local communities in building capacity for renewable energy generation and improved energy efficiency, and are establishing a Community Energy Network across Hampshire.
Community energy is about people coming together to reduce their energy use, as well as generating low-carbon heat and power. This may be to tackle climate change, for energy security or to make energy affordable.
Masterclasses and resources
Community Energy South host regular online masterclasses to provide tips on developing community energy, covering subjects such as fundraising, solar panels and more.
View the upcoming masterclasses
There are also plenty of other resources to help you explore setting up community energy projects.
Revolving community energy fund
A revolving community energy fund has been launched by Hampshire County Council. It will invest up to £25,000 in any individual community project being launched in Hampshire as part of the Community Energy Pathways project, being delivered by Community Energy South.
The aim of the fund is to stimulate community investment in renewable energy across Hampshire. Any profits that result from community schemes will go back into the fund for investment in other community schemes, making it a sustainable funding mechanism for the long-term.
Residents seeking further information on the fund, should email: [email protected]
Hampshire community energy groups
Community Energy South are currently working with five community groups in Hampshire to take renewable energy projects from concept to fruition:
Loddon Valley Community Energy, Basingstoke and Deane: The group is developing a pipeline of potential opportunities in the area. It is forming an outreach programme with the Parish Councils to raise awareness of their activity.
Test Source Community Energy, Basingstoke and Deane: The group is approaching the share offer stage for a 350kW solar PV project
Energy Alton, Alton: With CES support the group submitted an application to the Rural Community Energy Fund to look at developing a microgrid at a local cooperative housing group. For more information about the work this group is developing, visit their website
Energise South Downs, Petersfield, Hambledon, South Harting and Buriton: CES are working with the group to develop a brief for a feasibility study. There are several other exciting project opportunities in the pipeline including a microgrid at a new housing development.
Dragonfly Power, Romsey: Transition Romsey are forming a new community energy group in Test Valley, developing a start up plan which highlights potential projects areas, skills gaps, partners and funding opportunities.
Energy Champions
Having energy champions within your community provides a place for those in fuel poverty to get help, such as ensuring that vulnerable people are on the property services register and have access to available grants, as well as helping everyone identify routes to eco retrofit.
Community Energy South held a webinar on the community benefits of energy champion.
