Braintree District Council has awarded the full £100,000 of funding from its Community Infrastructure Grants scheme to 11 community groups, parish councils and sports clubs.
The capital fund, which was launched in February, was available to existing constituted groups wishing to make improvements that would help reduce their carbon emissions.
Each organisation has estimated the carbon reduction the changes will make to electricity or heating usage, for a huge average reduction of 54%.
The projects will support the council in the delivery of key Climate Strategy priorities, to support business and communities to improve resilience and to reduce energy use, and improve energy efficient infrastructure.
Lisa Collins, Feering Parish Clerk, said: “We are delighted to have received this grant funding, which will be used to replace the main hall’s suspended ceiling and lighting. The new LED lights will not only improve the hall’s appearance but also reduce lighting costs by up to 80% due to their energy efficiency. These upgrades will also support our carbon reduction efforts, making the centre more eco-friendly.”
Gavin Taylor, Grant Liaison Officer for Witham Town Football Club, said: “The grant received from Braintree District Council will allow the club to achieve meaningful reductions in our electricity usage and take steps towards reducing our carbon footprint; the associated reduction in running costs will make a big difference to what is an important community asset.”
Councillor Diana Garrod, Deputy Cabinet Member - Lead Member for Climate Change and Sustainability, said: “I am thrilled that we have been able to allocate the full £100,000 from this fund, which will make a real difference to our communities. These improvements will have a significant impact on the organisations’ sustainability, making them more resilient to energy cost increases and contributing positively to our environment. I look forward to following their progress.”
The Community Infrastructure Grants Fund has received £100,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.