Heart of England Community Energy Ltd. (HECE), a local energy enterprise serving South Warwickshire communities, has allocated over £40,000 through its Community Benefit Fund to support local projects in need. This fund aims to support carbon reduction, reduce fuel poverty and enhance the well-being of socially disadvantaged communities.

Over the past year, HECE’s Community Benefit Fund has assisted 8 local charitable and community organisations. These projects have undoubtedly eased the burden on local families during a challenging financial year. Projects funded include:

• A £15,000 donation to Citizens Advice South Warwickshire. This facilitated the distribution of food vouchers, school uniforms, white goods, and assistance with energy bills and utilities for local households in need.

• £9,000 to the Stratford-upon-Avon Foodbank, to sustain ongoing efforts and bolster the Christmas Hampers project. This donation supported the creation of 421 hampers to 569 adults and 584 children, filled with seasonal treats and essential goods.

• An £800 grant to the Napton Environmental Action Team for a thermal imaging camera. This will aid in identifying energy inefficiencies, poor insulation, draughts, and dampness in local buildings.

• £3,600 to Bidford on Avon Parish Council for a new Community Fridge and Café, aimed at reducing food waste and providing meals to those facing food insecurity.

About Heart of England Community Energy Ltd.

HECE is a not-for-profit community energy enterprise governed by local volunteer directors and professionally managed by Communities for Renewables CIC. HECE owns one of the largest community solar arrays in the UK and serves the communities of South Warwickshire.

Its solar array generates 13.5 million kWh of green electricity annually, producing over £1.6 million in revenue each year. After covering operating and finance costs, including interest and capital repayments to share and bond investors, HECE is expected to generate at least £3.5 million over the solar farm’s 25-year operating life. This surplus will support community and carbon reduction projects, aiming to alleviate fuel poverty, address social deprivation, and promote environmental sustainability through impactful local initiatives.