SP Energy Networks has announced £5 million funding to provide guidance and support to charities and community organisations to improve and decarbonise heating systems, electrify transport, increase energy efficiency, and upskill communities.
Working with Energy Saving Trust, the fund will initially deliver upskilling workshops and training before helping selected projects develop and fund their plans.
The new fund has been established through SP Transmission, a subsidiary of SP Energy Networks, responsible for transmitting high-voltage electricity from power stations and windfarms to the low-voltage network across Central and Southern Scotland. The fund will target communities located near transmission network investment projects.
The fund is looking for eligible charities and community organisations to express interest in receiving tailored support to develop their net zero plans and low-carbon project ideas. Eligible groups include community organisations, charities and other not-for-profit organisations that have aspirations to become cleaner and greener.
Vicky Kelsall, Chief Executive of SP Energy Networks, said: “The race to net zero is speeding up and we’re here to help communities take action now. On the road to achieving net zero in Scotland by 2045, we need to see significant changes by 2030 which means towns and cities across Scotland will need to reduce carbon emissions across heating and transport while investing in energy efficiency and knowledge building.
“The Net Zero Fund will support vulnerable communities to make proactive change to reduce their impact on the environment. It will focus on areas that are often overlooked but have the potential to unlock net zero and deliver tangible social, environmental and economic benefits.”
Laura McGadie, Group Head of Energy, Energy Saving Trust said: “This support will provide communities in Central and Southern Scotland with the tools and knowledge they need to realise their net zero ambitions. It will therefore also play an integral role in ensuring Scotland achieves its national target of net zero carbon emissions by 2045”.

Expressions of interest can be made here
More information here