Community groups in Lichfield could reduce their energy costs as part of a new initiative.

The Go Green scheme has been set up by Southern Staffordshire Community Energy (SSCE) and will allow organisations in Lichfield and Burntwood to apply for grants of up to £2,000 to improve energy efficiency in buildings.

Community-owned solar panels at Whittington Village Hall
Community-owned solar panels at Whittington Village Hall

Alternatively organisations can apply for funding for an energy audit of their building to help identify energy improvements which are needed. SSCE will then advise on how to raise funding to implement the findings.

All owners and leaseholders of community halls, village halls, scout premises, church halls, and any premises which are used as a community resource, are invited to apply.

Chair of SSCE, Mike Kinghan, said: “We know that energy costs are a big burden for many community organisations who own or run buildings and it is not easy for them to get help. We are a community benefit society and we want to use our surplus to make a difference for communities locally.

“So we would encourage organisations who would like an energy audit or funding towards and energy efficient project to apply for a Go Gree’ grant.

“This is an exciting new departure for us and we would hope to be in a position to do even more in the future.”

The types of project which would be eligible include insulation, draught-proofing, double glazing, improved heating or lighting controls, low energy lighting and better boilers. The grants can be used to fund the whole of the work or to contribute to a bigger project. Larger projects might involve solid wall insulation or renewable energy installations like solar panels, heat pumps or biomass boilers.

To download an application form visit www.ssce.co.uk. The deadline for applications is 5pm on January 3.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.