Grants of up to £5k available to fight fuel poverty in Bath area

Local charities and organisations in the Bath area are being offered grants of up to £5,000 to help reduce carbon emissions and address fuel poverty.

This funding comes through the Bath and West Community Energy (BWCE) Fund, which is now in its eleventh year and is made possible by surplus income from BWCE.

Applications for the grants are open until the deadline of October 31, 2024.

Earlier this year, £40,505 was distributed to ten projects in or near Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES), aimed at reducing carbon emissions and addressing fuel poverty.

These grants supported a variety of initiatives, including:

    •    Energy efficiency in community buildings and transport: Projects included the installation of wifi heating controls, improved heating and insulation (Bishop Sutton Village Hall, Marksbury School, More Trees BANES); a topographical survey for a proposed cycle route (Cycle Chippenham); and the creation of a Climate Hub in Bath (Climate Hub Bath & North East Somerset).

    •    Environmental education: Funding supported a thermal imaging camera to teach people how to save energy and reduce fuel costs (Freshford and Limpley Stoke Home Energy Group); a waste reduction project in rural schools (Bath Share & Repair); initiatives tackling food waste and poverty by hosting free meal events using surplus food (Bath Community Kitchen); and funding for a freelance worker to develop volunteer projects (Transition Bath).

    •    Domestic energy efficiency: Support was given for distributing energy-saving items to help those experiencing poverty and disadvantage during the winter months (Genesis Trust).

Picture credit: Bath and West Community Energy (BWCE)