Great news for local community groups and organisations: Westmill Solar Co-operative has opened applications for its 2025 Community Grants Scheme, offering valuable funding opportunities for environmental and community-focused projects.

The scheme provides grants ranging from £500 to £5,000 for eligible non-profit community organisations. Since launching in 2020, Westmill Solar has distributed substantial sums annually to support local communities, thanks to the generosity of their members and the strong financial performance of their solar farm.

Who Can Apply

Eligible organisations include:

• Charities and Community Interest Companies
• Schools, colleges and educational bodies
• Faith organisations
• Village halls, youth clubs and community centres
• Co-operatives and community benefit societies
• Unincorporated clubs and voluntary groups

To qualify, organisations must be based in Oxfordshire or within 25 miles of the Westmill Solar site in Watchfield (SN6 8TY). Priority is given to local community projects.

The scheme particularly welcomes applications for projects that:

• Raise awareness about climate change
• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
• Address fuel poverty and energy equity
• Demonstrate co-operative principles such as community engagement, sustainability, education, and collaboration

Application Deadline: 12 noon on 15th September 2025

Applications must be submitted through the official process, and guidance documents are available on the Westmill Energy website. For questions about the application process, contact the team at communityfunding@westmillsolar.coop.

Beyond grants, Westmill Solar also offers free Community Energy Assessments for community buildings, helping organisations to identify ways to reduce energy use and create ongoing savings. While there's currently a waiting list for these assessments, organisations can register their interest through the Low Carbon Hub.

This funding represents an excellent opportunity for local groups to advance environmental projects while benefiting their communities. Don't miss the September deadline – start planning your application today!

For full details and application guidance, visit: westmillenergy.coop/what-we-do/community-funding/