UK100 has submitted a response to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero's call for evidence on barriers to community energy projects. The submission examines how to expand and strengthen community-led energy projects across the UK.
As a network of 116 local authorities committed to tackling climate change in their communities, UK100 outlined key priorities for reform:
Creating a stable policy environment through a long-term national community energy strategy
Establishing consistent, long-term funding streams for councils and community energy that can develop and sustain community energy organisations and groups to develop capacity and deliver projects. Also focus on creating a stable energy market, with business opportunities and investable projects so community energy organisations can become more self-reliant and be able to attract further public, community and private investment in the long run.
Streamlining planning processes for renewable energy infrastructure
Including onshore wind, and ensure these are consistent. Remove any barriers to onshore wind and solar and ensure the Climate Change Act is prioritised in planning policy. Simplifying the process for community energy projects and making it easier for these projects to sell their electricity locally, via private wire networks or microgrids, could also unlock many more projects and build public support.
Building a sustainable and inclusive community energy market through comprehensive incentives
Reintroducing effective financial incentives, such as feed-in tariffs, the ability to sell locally and the establishment of schemes like a Community and Smaller-scale Electricity Export Guarantee Scheme to provide guaranteed income so communities can receive adequate remuneration.
Enhancing technical support and training for community energy groups
So they can build their own capacity. In addition provide guidance around business planning, project management and community engagement etc. to ensure community energy groups can deliver the best results.
UK100 highlighted several critical recommendations:
- Reintroducing effective financial incentives like feed-in tariffs
- Creating dedicated funding streams for project development
- Supporting local authorities as key conveners between businesses, training providers and communities
- Developing regional specialisation and training hubs
- Establishing mechanisms for knowledge sharing and best practice
- Reforming grid connection processes to reduce costs and delays
- Formally recognising local benefits in planning decisions
The submission showcased successful initiatives including Bath and West Community Energy, Plymouth Energy Community, and the Hackney Community Energy Fund as examples of effective local delivery. UK100 emphasised that community energy projects not only support decarbonisation but also deliver significant local economic and social benefits through job creation, skills development, and energy bill reduction.
Overall, UK100 called for a transformation in how community energy projects are supported and delivered, with local authorities playing a central role in creating sustainable, community-owned clean energy systems that benefit local areas while contributing to national goals.
