Welsh Government unveils new grant scheme to support the
development of Smart Local Energy Systems
The Welsh Government has today announced a new £10m capital grant
scheme to support the development of Smart Local Energy Systems
(SLES) across Wales. This initiative is a key part of delivering
Wales's goal of generating 100% of its electricity from renewable
sources by 2035 while empowering communities to take control of
their energy futures.
The grant scheme is open to community energy organisations,
social enterprises, public sector bodies, and small and
medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Applicants are encouraged to
develop innovative projects that integrate local energy
generation, storage, and infrastructure, making energy systems
more efficient and delivering tangible local benefits, including
lower energy costs.
The Cabinet Secretary for the Economy and Energy, , said: “This £10m grant scheme is pivotal in our
efforts to decarbonise Wales's energy supply and ensure the
benefits of this transition are felt within our communities.
“With energy costs contributing to the current cost of living
crisis, these projects can reduce the need for large scale energy
infrastructure and develop a more resilient local energy system.”
Through deploying SLES projects across Wales, the Welsh
Government will gain invaluable insights into the scale of
benefits that can be secured for communities. This learning will
help Ynni Cymru refine and expand these systems to maximise their
impact across the nation.
Mr Skates added: “I strongly encourage interested parties to
seize this opportunity and apply for the funding. Together, we
can lead the way to a greener, fairer Wales.”
Established by Welsh Government in 2023, the Ynni Cymru
programme's aim is to ensure that energy generation benefits are
retained locally, promoting community ownership of integrated
renewable energy assets as a central strategy in the transition
to a low-carbon economy.
For more information on how to apply, go to https://www.gov.wales/ynni-cymru-capital-grant-funding-programme-2024-2025
