The fund is specifically targeted at Barnet-based charities, voluntary groups, faith organisations, and social enterprises that are keen to develop schemes supporting renewable energy use, reducing energy consumption, and lowering household fuel costs
Barnet Council has unveiled a new £50,000 Community Energy Fund designed to empower local organisations to lead innovative projects that cut carbon emissions and promote sustainability. This initiative is a key part of the council’s wider ambition to make Barnet a Net Zero borough by 2042. The fund is specifically targeted at Barnet-based charities, voluntary groups, faith organisations, and social enterprises that are keen to develop schemes supporting renewable energy use, reducing energy consumption, and lowering household fuel costs. The financial backing comes from the council’s Carbon Offset Fund, which collects contributions from developers who are unable to meet on-site carbon reduction targets during their construction projects.
The Community Energy Fund offers grants across three distinct streams to support projects at different stages of development. Stream A provides up to £5,000 for feasibility studies and business case development, helping groups assess the technical and financial viability of solar or other renewable energy schemes. Stream B supports project implementation by covering up to one-third of capital costs, with a maximum grant of £15,000, aimed at funding the actual installation of renewable energy technologies like solar panels. Stream C allocates between £500 and £5,000 to support training sessions, community events, and outreach programmes that raise awareness of carbon reduction and engage new groups in sustainable initiatives.
“We are committed to becoming a Net Zero borough by 2042, and to do that we need to work with residents and our communities every step of the way.”
-Alan Schneiderman, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change
To qualify for funding, projects must clearly demonstrate how they will contribute to lowering carbon emissions, generate renewable energy, encourage community participation, or tackle fuel poverty within Barnet. This emphasis on measurable environmental and social benefits aligns with the council’s strategic goal of reducing the borough’s carbon footprint while fostering a healthier, more sustainable local environment.
Councillor Alan Schneiderman, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, highlighted the council’s collaborative approach: “Achieving Net Zero by 2042 is a shared responsibility. We want to work closely with residents and community organisations to drive meaningful change. This fund is an opportunity for local groups to take the lead in shaping a greener, cleaner future for Barnet.”
The council hopes that by supporting a diverse range of grassroots projects, it can stimulate innovation and build a stronger community network focused on sustainability. “Together, we can make a real difference to our environment and to the quality of life for all residents,” Schneiderman added.
Applications for the Community Energy Fund open on Monday, 19 May and will remain open until 30 June 2025. Successful applicants will be notified soon after and must spend the awarded funds within one year of receiving the grant. To ensure broad participation, the council has arranged for applicants to receive mentoring support from Community Energy London, along with tailored advice from Barnet Council’s Sustainability Team, making it easier for groups to prepare strong proposals and deliver impactful projects.
This fund builds on Barnet’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, reflecting a growing recognition at local government level of the urgent need to address climate change and support communities in adapting to its challenges. By investing in community-led energy initiatives, Barnet Council aims not only to reduce emissions but also to improve energy affordability and resilience across the borough.
In an era when climate action requires concerted efforts at every level, Barnet’s Community Energy Fund represents a practical step towards mobilising local expertise and enthusiasm. With financial support and guidance now available, community groups are encouraged to seize the opportunity to lead innovative sustainability projects that could become models for other boroughs across London and beyond.
