Four projects in Wales are set to receive a total of almost £300,000 from British Gas owner, Centrica. The grant funding has been awarded to the projects following the energy giant’s sustainability programme called Energy for Tomorrow.
Welsh entrepreneurs were invited to apply for a grant of up to £100,000 from the fund for initiatives that could deliver affordable, accessible and sustainable energy solutions.
The funds were awarded based on the impact each project would have on a community, its feasibility, innovation and opportunity for Centrica to lend its support.
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The successful projects included Boomerang Cardiff, a homeless charity which is looking to create a new modular community village that will house a community café, workshops and training spaces offering employment skills. This would be powered by solar panels installed on the roofs of the surrounding industrial units.
Boomerang founder Paul Gwilym said: “Boomerang are delighted to have this opportunity to work with Energy for Tomorrow on a project designed to support the community in many different ways.”
Cwmni Bro Antur Aelhaern, a social enterprise supporting the village of Llanaelhaearn and the surrounding area, was the second project chosen. The funding will be used to install solar panels and a battery to its community hall, GP surgery and neighbouring chapel which is being redeveloped as a community asset.
Chair of Cwmni Bro Llyr Rhisiart said: “Cwmni Bro Antur Aelhaearn are delighted that we have been accepted as a recipient of the Energy for Tomorrow programme grant and are excited about the difference it will make for our community.
“Our aim is to make our community buildings more energy-efficient spaces, acting as an example to other local communities on what can be achieved. We are also looking to use our engagement with the community to help them to be more energy-efficient and take advantage of funding available.”
Funding has also been awarded to a village primary school in the Vale of Glamorgan which is planning to build a solar pagoda allowing it to generate its own energy.
Financial backing for the final project will allow an energy warden to support residents in Blaenau Ffestiniog with energy and debt advice over the next 3 years. The energy warden will also be co-ordinating a proposed new community hydro scheme project which will see local homes benefitting from locally produced energy.
Senedd Climate Change Committee Chair Llyr Gruffydd said: “The projects being supported by Centrica demonstrate the level of innovation taking place in Welsh communities today, addressing the challenges of both climate change and the cost of living crisis. It’s clear to see that communities play a big part in helping us meet our national targets while supporting those that are in fuel poverty.”
Programme manager Sarah Wright said: “Tackling climate change is a job that requires everyone to work together, with each of us doing our bit to bring solutions both big and small to the table. The Energy for Tomorrow funding that has been awarded to these four projects in Wales will help organisations that are working at the heart of communities to scale up their ideas and initiatives to make a real difference in people’s lives so that we can continue to push for a sustainable future for all.”
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