GB Energy Community Fund and Partnerships Grant

Great British Energy (GBE) has launched two significant funding programmes designed to accelerate community-led clean energy projects and strengthen collaboration between community energy organisations and local authorities across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The combined investment totals £25 million and provides support from project feasibility through to capital delivery.

The GBE Community Fund, worth £20 million, is aimed at community organisations seeking to develop and deliver community-owned renewable energy projects. Eligible projects must demonstrate clear community ownership, with at least 50% community ownership when operational, and show how benefits will be retained within or delivered to the local community. Funding is available across three stages, including up to £40,000 for feasibility studies, up to £100,000 for project development, and up to £3 million or 50% of total project costs for capital delivery of construction-ready schemes.

Alongside this, the GBE Partnerships Grant provides £5 million to support local authorities working collaboratively with community energy organisations. The fund encourages the development of strong partnerships and viable clean energy projects, offering grants of up to £40,000 for partnership formation and feasibility work, and up to £100,000 for detailed project development. Applications must be submitted by local authorities with evidence of meaningful engagement from a community energy partner.

Both programmes are supported by the UK’s regional Net Zero Hubs, which provide specialist advice and application support. Organisations are encouraged to engage with their local Hub early to strengthen applications and maximise project success. The application window is currently open, with a deadline of 12 November 2026.

For community energy groups, local authorities and organisations seeking to deliver renewable energy projects with lasting local benefit, these funds represent a major opportunity to access substantial development and capital investment.

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