A historic medieval church now in community control is among ventures to benefit from SP Energy Networks’ community fund, designed to spur technology accelerating carbon-free use.
Now grant givers at the powerco’s Net Zero fund are seeking more civic groups to share its £5 million pot.
The groups will receive grants to aid decarbonisation and help them speed progress towards their Net Zero targets, by means such as solar panels or heat pumps, or retrofitting listed buildings to increase energy efficiency.
Benefitting already is Govan Heritage Trust, a group of volunteers dedicated to promoting the Glasgow neighbourhood’s cultural heritage. They’ve received a grant to heat a decommissioned church, with a heat pump drawing warmth from the River Clyde. Carbon savings of more than 90% are anticipated.
When Govan Old Church – pictured – closed in 2007, the trust sprang up to rescue the listed building and contents including the internationally renowned Govan Stones, a collection of early medieval sculpture.
Now in community ownership, the property is being developed into a museum to showcase the site’s heritage. The renovations will also offer a meeting space for local organisations, charities and voluntary groups.
SP Energy Networks’ Net Zero Fund – see link – is now welcoming applications from eligible Scots charities & community organisations. Technical guidance as well as money is on offer.
Network regulation director Scott Mathieson said: “SP Energy Networks takes pride in serving all of the communities of central and southern Scotland.
“Our staff and networks are part of the fabric of the Central Belt and it’s right that we play our part in ensuring the most vulnerable customers in our areas also obtain access to the benefits that zero emission energy can bring in transport, heat and jobs“.
