The District Council has just announced the winners: £254,000 has been awarded to help 15 organisations cut carbon emissions through the Carbon Action Fund:
Supporting projects to reduce carbon emissions and energy use, the Carbon Action Fund is a decarbonisation grant scheme delivered through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund programme.
For example:
Stovesonline Ltd received a £20,000 grant to install a solar PV array with battery storage at its Dunkeswell unit. Any surplus electricity generated will be exported, and 60% of the net income from that surplus will go to Exeter Community Energy (ECOE) to directly fund local energy advice and retrofit programmes. Sune Nightingale, Director, said:
“We’re pleased to be taking forward this collaboration with ECOE to reduce our own emissions while also supporting the local community. The Carbon Action Fund (CAF) grant from EDDC has been key to unlocking the wider social benefits of the project, and we hope it will provide a model for other businesses looking to decarbonise and reinvest locally.”
Exmouth Community College (ECC) received a £25,000 grant to upgrade the floodlights on its pitches to LED. As Exmouth’s only floodlit, year-round astroturf pitches, the facilities are well used by local sports clubs and schools. Rich Marratt, People and Operations Manager at ECC, said:
“We’re delighted to have received this vital funding, enabling us to take meaningful steps towards reducing our carbon footprint and demonstrating to students our commitment to sustainability. By installing new LED lighting we’ll reduce energy waste and light spill, while lowering running costs so we can keep pitch hire at a reasonable price for our local community.”
The Blacksmiths Arms, Plymtree’s village pub, received £13,500 to install a solar PV array with battery storage. Tadhg Carter, Manager, said:
“By reducing our energy bills, the new solar panels will support our financial resilience during a challenging time for hospitality. The grant will help us to operate more sustainably and ensure we can continue to serve as a vital social and community hub for years to come.”
So, as East Devon businesses are given grants to go green, Councillor Paul Hayward, Portfolio Holder for Assets and Economy, says:
“The Carbon Action Fund has enabled 15 organisations across East Devon to deliver practical projects that will reduce carbon emissions and support more efficient use of energy. These grants have helped businesses and community organisations take steps towards lower-carbon operations while supporting our wider Net Zero ambitions.”
Congratulations all!
Finally, for next time round and more information, you can apply here: Carbon Action Fund – East Devon
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