The Almshouse Association has just been advised by Utility Aid of the VSCE Energy Scheme which will help voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations (VCSEs) across England to deliver more efficient services for people and communities by saving money on their energy bills.
The VCSE Energy Efficiency Scheme is offering independent energy assessments to help identify energy-saving opportunities in your building. The Scheme is also offering capital grants to implement measures recommended in your assessment. The current round of funding is now open, with applications closing at 12pm on Thursday 29 February 2024.
Applicant organisations must be a VCSE based in England and delivering frontline services. They must be able to demonstrate that they are financially sustainable, require support around energy and are not suitable for blended finance or loan support through other schemes.
The scheme is funded as part of a package of over ÂŁ100 million of support being delivered by the Government to help frontline delivery organisations with the increased cost of living.
How does it work?
The Scheme’s eligibility checker may be used to check on eligibility to apply for the cost and delivery of an Independent Energy Assessment (IEA) or a Capital Grant. If you’re successful, you will be matched with an independent energy assessor who will work with you to assess your building and help identify energy-saving opportunities.
An IEA is a comprehensive evaluation of your building’s energy usage, efficiency and potential for energy savings, conducted by a qualified and experienced independent energy assessor.
With a satisfactory IEA, and provided you meet the wider eligibility criteria, your organisation may also apply for a Capital Grant. Capital Grants of between £2,000 and £150,000 can be used to install capital energy efficiency measures, identified in your IEA, to reduce your building’s energy costs and support the delivery of your frontline services.
Check if you’re eligible for an Independent Energy Assessment or Capital Grant or visit the Programme Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions information using the links below.
Further information may be obtained from ees.groundwork.org.uk or by calling 0121 237 5894.
posted 14 February 2024