Community Energy
The UK energy sector is in the process of rapid change as it rises to the challenge of meeting the legally-binding target of reaching Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050. Local communities are critical in this shift of facilitating more renewable energy and heat generation, whilst supporting local people with energy efficiency advice and support.
What is Community Energy?
Community Energy refers to a diverse range of community-led energy initiatives with local engagement, leadership, benefit and control at their heart. As the energy landscape changes, so has the focus of community energy projects. The focus has shifted from solely generating and purchasing electricity to a whole system approach which includes tackling local fuel poverty through energy efficiency support, reducing energy use, and providing local energy advice services.
To find more information about community energy, visit the Community Energy England website.
How we support Community Energy
Examples of how we work with our communities
Community Energy Projects
Energywise
The award-wining Energywise project explored how DNOs can work collaboratively with energy suppliers and local trusted organisations to deliver appropriate services to communities of low income households who may be struggling with their energy bills.
Urban Energy Club
Urban Energy Club is finding out how giving residents of a block of flats virtual shares in a battery connected to the property’s rooftop solar panels can help them cut their energy costs
Home Response
A two-year trial, part of London’s Energy for Londoners programme, which will test flexible energy solutions in around 160 London homes. This includes using solar panels with battery storage technology and electricity for heating water.
Energy Garden
A scheme to give opportunities to unemployed young people, helping to give them professional and life skills for a future in the energy industry
Communiheat
We’re working with the community of Barcombe, East Sussex, to create a low carbon heating blueprint for off-gas grid communities. The village could hold one of the keys to helping the UK reach Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Connect to our network
Want to connect something new to our network? Whether you’re a domestic or commercial customer visit our Connections hub to find out how to apply for a new electricity connection.
Enquiries from Local Authorities
If you are part of the local authority within our coverage area and would like to get in touch, you can email our Public Affairs Manager who will arrange to contact you back.