VCSE Energy Efficiency Scheme
The VCSE (Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise) Energy Efficiency Scheme is a grant to help voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations deliver more efficient services for people and communities by saving on their energy bills, which can also help reduce emissions.
Applicants must be based in England and deliver frontline services. Funding will prioritise organisations that directly support individuals and communities with critical needs, particularly around the rising cost of living, as well as organisations for whom energy is the biggest concern. Schools and Parish Councils are unable to apply for this grant.
The funding has two elements:
- Funding for an Independent Energy Assessment (IEA): Organisations can apply for the cost and delivery of an IEA, which will help identify different energy-saving measures they might be able to implement.
- Capital Grant funding for energy saving measures: Organisations with an IEA may then be eligible to apply for a capital grant to install the recommended energy efficiency measures on their premises.
Organisations can use Groundwork's Eligibility Checker to see if they are eligible to apply for the cost and delivery of an IEA and/or a Capital Grant.
If successful, the organisation will be matched with an independent energy assessor who will work with them to assess the building and assist with identifying energy-saving opportunities.
The next round of funding will open in April 2024.
The scheme is funded by the Department for Culture, Digital, Media and Sport.