Bristol City Leap is excited to announce that six more projects have successfully secured funding in the fourth round of our £1.5 million Community Energy Fund. This funding round, designed to support community-led energy projects, continues to build on Bristol’s commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Successful applicants have received grants to decarbonise their local communities, with over £140,000 awarded in this round. Making the total amount awarded through the fund over £600,000. The organisations receiving funding in this round include a diverse range of community groups such as Green Schools Project, Arnolfini Gallery, SS Great Britain Trust, Bristol Community Energy and Resilience Network CIC.

  • Track and use building data to improve heat and energy efficiency
  • Facilitate the installation of a battery for the community-owned solar PV system at the Bristol Indoor Bowls Club
  • Explore the feasibility of community solar panels for 100 homes in Lockleaze
  • Look into setting up community-owned wind turbines at three possible locations
  • Create climate education sessions that teach schools how to measure their carbon footprints, and it will also give students the tools to design and lead projects focused on reducing carbon emissions at their schools

Alexandra Coleman, Senior Vice President at Ameresco UK, said, “By investing in community-driven energy projects, we empower the residents of Bristol to make meaningful strides toward decarbonisation bills. The success of these initiatives will spark further positive transformations throughout the city. Our dedication to working alongside the voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector across Bristol is embodied in the Community Energy Fund, showcasing the significant impact we can achieve by supporting local communities on their journey to a sustainable future.”

“We’re pleased to see heat-related projects come forward through the Community Energy Fund. With more groups interested in transitioning to low-carbon heating solutions, it’s a positive reflection of the Bristol heat network’s growth and the vibrancy of community heating in the city. We’ll continue to support in any way we can to make this happen across Bristol.”

The £1.5 million Community Energy Fund, created through contributions of £750,000 each from Ameresco and Vattenfall, is a vital component of Bristol City Leap’s effort to support sustainable energy initiatives across the city. By offering financial support to community organisations, the fund aims to reduce fossil fuel use, enable connections to the Bristol heat network, and encourage energy reduction and efficiency in local communities.

The Fifth Round of Funding is Now Open

With the conclusion of the fourth round of funding, Bristol City Leap is pleased to announce that the fifth round of Community Energy Fund applications is officially open. Community groups, charities, faith organisations, and other eligible entities across Bristol (BS1–BS16) are encouraged to apply for grants and zero-interest loans to support their decarbonisation efforts.

Councillor Martin Fodor, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “We are thrilled to see the latest awards of community funding, which will allow even more groups to progress their projects and play an active role in Bristol’s decarbonisation efforts. Achieving our climate goals requires collective action on all fronts, from the smallest initiatives to larger projects. This fund is tailored to empower communities to achieve a whole range of local benefits while taking impactful steps toward sustainability. By enhancing energy efficiency and launching renewable energy projects, these initiatives will engage a wide range of participants and help drive significant progress toward a sustainable future for all.”

Applicants will have around three months to submit their projects, with a deadline set for the 2nd of April 2026. The decision panel will convene later that month. This provides ample time for organisations to develop proposals that align with the fund’s objectives of reducing carbon emissions and supporting community-led energy initiatives.

Please be aware that applications for microgrants, which can be awarded up to £1,000, are available for initiating projects and are not restricted by specific deadlines. These applications can be submitted and awarded at any time.

For more information on how to apply, please visit https://www.bristolcityleap.co.uk/community/community-energy-fund/

About the Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund

The Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund is part of our commitment to delivering social value and advancing decarbonisation across the city. The fund supports a wide range of community energy projects, including low-carbon building improvements, renewable energy installations, and initiatives to reduce energy consumption. Any profits generated from our loans will be reinvested into the fund to sustain future initiatives. We invite all interested community groups and organisations to apply and join us on Bristol’s journey to a better, more sustainable future.