British Gas Energy Fund

British Gas launches £2 million community energy fund

British Gas is calling for entries following their launch of an energy fund of £2 million in the search for Britain's most innovative green communities.

The launch of the fund is part of the utilities giant's national Green Streets campaign. British Gas aims to support a growing grassroots movement of people who want to bring a new lease of life to their community with ambitious energy projects, but need help to get their plans off the ground.

Community groups working on local renewable energy projects - including solar, wind or hydro power to biomass, ground-source and air-source heat pumps - can compete for a share of the money.

Projects will be judged according to their potential for energy efficiency savings across the entire community, local renewable power generation, and ability to engage an entire community through education in local schools and mobilising the support of other local residents.

Champions of projects shortlisted will be asked to pitch for funding in community selection meetings. Around a dozen finalists will receive a share of the £2m funding.

How to apply

Interested energy projects should apply by 31 August 2009 through the British Gas website.