The UK Government’s new Local Power Plan provides a significant opportunity for communities to take greater control over how energy is generated and used locally.
The plan supports the growth of community energy schemes, enabling residents, local organisations and councils to work together to develop renewable energy projects that deliver environmental, social and economic benefits for their areas.
We aim for Cheshire and Warrington to be one of the most sustainable parts of the country by 2025 – and community energy plays a huge role in achieving that ambition.
There are already great examples of this happening across Cheshire and Warrington, including the Dane Valley Hydro project and the Lymm solar farm, among others. These projects show what’s possible when communities come together and take advantage of support available to turn their ideas into working solutions that benefit everyone in their community.
Community-led energy projects not only help reduce carbon emissions but can also keep investment and skills within local areas, supporting long‑term resilience and growth.
The Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority will work with partners and communities to support the development of sustainable energy projects that help meet local net zero ambitions and deliver real benefits for residents.
Communities, organisations and local groups interested in developing a new community energy idea can find out more about the Local Power Plan and submit their interest online at: https://www.gbe.gov.uk/local-power-plan