Community benefit programme
Our voluntary nationwide scheme provides energy efficiency advice and funding for community buildings close to our projects.
Energy efficiency funding for communities
Since 2016, we’ve been working with the national charity, Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE), to offer communities living within a 20-mile radius of one of our clean energy projects the opportunity to make community buildings – like your local village hall or community centre – warmer and cheaper to run.
In total, we’ve awarded 70 grants to 58 community buildings, totalling over £225,000 nationally. As of 2024, the energy efficiency improvements funded by Thrive are saving an estimated 94 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
We believe in a world where everyone can be part of the clean energy generation and want as many people as possible to take an active role in the energy transition. The Community Benefit Programme reflects our commitment to being a good neighbour – in addition to the existing local initiatives we already operate.
Every year, we make individual awards of up to £4,500 available for upgrades like LED lighting, insulation and draught-proofing
Every year, we make individual awards of up to £4,500 available for upgrades like LED lighting, insulation and draught-proofing
These grants can be used in conjunction with other funding to pay for improvements that achieve the greatest impact.
For the communities that apply, we also work with CSE to deliver energy efficiency training, with the ambition to impart lifelong knowledge and skills that can be transferred to improve energy usage at home.
Applications are handled directly by CSE, and you can find out more information on the programme, entry criteria and timetable via the CSE website here: https://www.cse.org.uk/my-community/community-projects/thrive-renewables-community-benefit-programme
Celebrating wind power at Caton Moor
We talk to Benita Smith from The Victoria Institute (our very first grantee) about how Thrive's funding has helped their community.
Case study
Easton Community Centre
Thrive’s grant was used to install loft and pipe installation, creating a warmer and more welcoming space, whilst helping to reduce the building’s energy bills.
Case study
Halton Community Centre
The centre, near to our Caton Moor wind farm, provides vital services for residents of all ages and has become a focal point of the community.
Contact the team using the email below
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