Community Energy People
The project is addressing a key capacity issue in the community energy sector by creating paid jobs and volunteer positions in 11 partner groups. Giving our partners flexibility to choose which roles they recruit for has allowed them to fill vital core roles which are not covered by other project-based funding. This freedom has been key to the success of the project and has allowed our partners to grow and explore new ways of working, which they otherwise would not have been able to.
The additional capacity has helped facilitate several big achievements. The project has supported Energise South Downs to employ a communications manager, and a project manager who contributed to their share offer which raised £302,000 for three solar projects in just 10 days!
New starters have been involved in an incredible diversity of projects, including rooftop solar, district heating,solar car parks, retrofit, energy advice, and even a bid to supply community energy to Universal Studios!
63% of new employees are women, and 23% were previously unemployed. With a focus on inclusion, the project has been a gateway for people from a range of backgrounds to get involved in community energy.
Bringing everyone together has been a highlight of the project, providing opportunities to share learning and work on common challenges. We are developing new ways of collaborating online and the next phase will look to the legacy of the project ensuring our community energy people can continue their brilliant work.
“Over the past year, the Community Energy People project has supported communities to use energy more efficiently and fairly, empowering local people to take meaningful climate action. This aligns with the National Lottery Climate Action Fund’s aim to inspire bold, long-lasting change towards environmental sustainability.”
Paula Nelson, Portfolio Manager, National Lottery Community Fund
“As a new organisation, the Community Energy People funding has given us vital stability and flexibility, helping us retain staff, adapt to changing needs, and attract further funding. This kind of support enables community organisations to achieve far more.”
Livvy Hanks, General Manager, Our Power