SP Energy Networks is providing guidance and support to charities and organisations in Dumbarton and the Vale as part of its new £5 million Net Zero Fund.
The company, which owns and operates the electricity transmission and distribution network in central and southern Scotland, delivering power to more than two million homes and businesses, is reaching out to help ensure communities are not “left behind” in the nation’s bid to achieve net zero emissions by 2045.
Working with the Energy Saving Trust, the fund will deliver tailored community workshops and help selected projects to develop and fund their net zero plans.
It will also provide support to the community to improve and decarbonise heating systems, electrify transport, increase energy efficiency, and upskill people.
Vicky Kelsall, chief executive of SP Energy Networks, said: “The race to net zero is speeding up and we’re here to help communities in Dumbarton and the Vale take action now.
“We need to see significant changes by 2030 to reach net zero by 2045, which means our towns and cities will need to reduce carbon emissions across heating and transport while investing in energy efficiency and knowledge building.
“The Net Zero Fund will support vulnerable communities to make proactive changes to reduce their impact on the environment.
“It will focus on areas that are often overlooked but have the potential to unlock net zero and deliver tangible social, environmental and economic benefits.”
Workshops will be tailored to the needs of each community group, based on where they are in the net zero journey – from introductory sessions for those new to the concept, right through to technical workshops for those who already have a net zero project in mind.
Eligible groups include community organisations, charities and other not-for-profit organisations that have aspirations to become cleaner and greener.
Expressions of interest can be made here until September 30.
"The scale and pace of action required to make decarbonise our energy system as part of our net zero journey is significant, and also presents a fantastic opportunity to unlock cleaner, greener and cheaper energy for communities up and down the country," added Net Zero and Energy Secretary Michael Matheson.
“It is vital that this transformation happens in a way that is just and fair for everyone and leaves no-one behind.
"It is also important that we all work together to achieve it.
“This is why I welcome the launch of SP Energy Network’s Net Zero Fund, which will play an important role in providing advice and support to communities to help ensure a cleaner and greener future for everyone.”
More information about the Net Zero Fund and eligibility criteria is available at spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/the_net_zero_fund_t2.aspx
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