North Somerset Grants Nearly £300,000 to Fuel Rural Renewable Energy and Sustainable Business Initiatives
Key Insights
North Somerset Council has granted nearly £300,000 from the Rural England Prosperity Fund to 28 rural projects, fostering sustainability and economic resilience.
A significant portion of the funding supports renewable energy installations, including solar photovoltaic systems for community halls and sports clubs, reducing grid reliance.
The grants also facilitate sustainable business practices, such as electric vehicle adoption and energy-efficient equipment, demonstrating tangible cost savings.
This initiative underscores the strategic importance of targeted rural funding in accelerating local green transitions and enhancing community resilience.
North Somerset Council has allocated nearly £300,000 from the UK government's Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) to 28 diverse rural projects, significantly bolstering local sustainability and economic resilience. The funding, complemented by approximately £100,000 in match funding from recipient organizations, targets initiatives focused on enhancing productivity, improving community access, and driving environmental sustainability across the region.
A substantial portion of the grants directly supports the adoption of renewable energy technologies and green infrastructure. Among the beneficiaries, Abbots Leigh Parish Council received funding for a solar panel installation at its Village Hall, while Banwell Parish Council invested in battery storage solutions to maximize the efficiency and savings from existing solar arrays. These projects exemplify a strategic move towards localized energy generation and consumption, reducing reliance on the national grid.
Further demonstrating this shift, Gordano RFC utilized its REPF grant to install a 13.95kW solar photovoltaic system, enabling the club to generate its own renewable electricity. This installation has already yielded significant energy savings, with the club reporting £676.25 in reduced costs by February 2025. Similarly, Twisted Oak Brewery replaced its diesel delivery van with an electric vehicle, achieving fuel cost savings exceeding £650 between October 2024 and April 2025, highlighting the immediate economic benefits of sustainable transport solutions.
Beyond energy projects, the fund also supported business expansions and digital infrastructure upgrades, reinforcing the holistic approach to rural prosperity. Cllr Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council's cabinet member responsible for the economy, emphasized the broader impact, stating, "This funding is helping local organizations become greener, more resilient, and better equipped to deliver services in their communities. The scale and diversity of the projects supported show just how much potential exists in our rural areas when given the right support."
The success of this funding round underscores the critical role of targeted investment in fostering rural innovation and sustainable development. The council has announced that the next round of REPF funding is open for applications until 12 noon on Friday, August 1, inviting more local entities to participate in the region's green transition.