Third round of SP Energy Networks community funding opens, with more than £5 million available for local projects
Community groups across South Ayrshire, Dumfries and Galloway, and South Lanarkshire can now apply for a share of more than £5 million through the third round of SP Energy Networks’ Community Benefit Funding.
Linked to major electricity transmission infrastructure projects in each area, the funding will support local initiatives that improve community spaces, boost wellbeing, strengthen resilience, create opportunities for young people and deliver environmental benefits.
The funding launched in April this year and has already approved more than £1.6 million for projects across South Lanarkshire, South Ayrshire, the Scottish Borders, and Dumfries and Galloway through its first two rounds.
Applications for the third round opened on Monday 28th September, with funding available through the following local funds:
- Chirmorie Overhead Line Fund: available to groups supporting the Barrhill community.
- Coalburn North Substation Fund: available to groups supporting Coalburn and Lesmahagow.
- Mark Hill Substation Fund: available to groups supporting Barrhill, Girvan, Pinmore and Pinwherry.
- Stranoch Overhead Line Fund: available to groups supporting Barrhill and New Luce.
- LORG Fund: available to groups supporting Carsphairn.
Jamie Reid, Community and Sustainability Director, SP Energy Networks, said:
"This third round of funding represents a significant opportunity for local organisations to secure investment for projects that really matter to their communities.
"We know first-hand the incredible work being carried out by community groups, charities and volunteers across these areas and we're keen to support initiatives that deliver meaningful and lasting benefits for local people.
"Whether it's upgrading community facilities, delivering environmental improvements, creating opportunities for young people or supporting vulnerable members of the community, we would encourage organisations to come forward with their ideas."
The funding recognises the role local areas play in hosting new electricity transmission infrastructure, which is needed to strengthen the network, improve reliability for homes and businesses, and connect more renewable energy to the grid.
SP Energy Networks’ Community Benefit Fund helps ensure the transition to a cleaner, greener energy system also delivers practical, long-term value for communities across central and southern Scotland.
Eligible organisations can find full details, application forms and eligibility criteria on the SP Energy Networks community benefits funding website. Residents and community groups in eligible areas can also share project ideas by emailing communitybenefits@spenergynetworks.co.uk or visiting our website.