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Wind turbines

What is the Innovative Local Energy Scheme? European Regional Development Fund

The Innovative Local Energy Scheme supports and funds renewable energy projects of under 5 megawatts (MW) in the West of England.

The scheme has already awarded £500,000 to Ambition Community Energy (ACE) to build a 150-metre wind turbine in Avonmouth. This is a community-led project and will support the delivery of the Ambition Lawrence Weston Community Plan.

View Case Study

INNOVATIVE LOCAL ENERGY SCHEME

New projects

Two projects have recently been funded through this scheme: a solar array with community orchard and meadow and heat pump infrastructure for a community lido. Further details to be follow shortly.

INNOVATIVE LOCAL ENERGY SCHEME

Next grant round

A new grant round will be held later in 2022. If you have a potential project that will deliver renewable energy and local community benefits please email Marion.Britton@westofengland-ca.gov.uk.

Solar Panels on large roof 

The South West Net Zero Hub

Organisations who want to partner with the West of England to create a resilient and affordable energy system can get further advice from the South West Energy Hub. The Hub offers support in developing and implementing local energy projects as well as step-by-step advice for business cases, from planning to financing.

Visit Energy Hub site

Wind turbine

The ACE Wind Turbine in Avonmouth will generate enough energy to power the equivalent of 3,850 homes.

How is the Innovative Local Energy Scheme funded?

The Innovative Local Energy Scheme is part of the Low Carbon Challenge Fund (LCCF). This is managed by the Combined Authority and funded from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) (£2.1m) and the West of England Recovery Fund (£1.9m). The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is the Managing Authority for ERDF. Established by the European Union, ERDF helps local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations. This is confirmed funding and will be unaffected by the EU transition.

The Local Energy Scheme helps deliver the West of England Combined Authority’s West of England Climate Emergency Action Plan. It also supports the West of England Recovery Plan to achieve a green recovery following COVID-19.