Local community projects go greener thanks to STCE Community Grant

Shropshire and Telford Community Energy (STCE) has awarded grants to a range of local organisations, helping to cut energy use, reduce their carbon footprint and improve sustainability.

Among the latest beneficiaries is Wellington Orbit, which has received £4,000 to support energy efficiency adaptations as it refurbishes the upper floors of its central building in Wellington, home to an independent cinema, café and expanding community facilities.

Ray Hughes, Director of Wellington Orbit, said:

“This support from STCE boosts our efforts to make Wellington Orbit more energy efficient as we expand our facilities. It’s a strong example of how community initiatives like STCE can have long-lasting benefits for local people and organisations.”

STCE owns the Twemlows solar farm at Prees Heath, near Whitchurch. Through its community share offers, STCE enables local people to invest in renewable energy and generate long-term community benefits. In 2023, the society raised £294,000 in its first share offer, paying its first 6% interest to members, and is now running a second offer to secure the solar farm’s future.

STCE’s grant scheme has already supported:

· The Festival Drayton Centre, which installed rooftop solar PV to cut energy bills and reduce its carbon footprint.

· Little Wenlock Village Hall, now emissions free thanks to air source heating, solar PV, battery storage and an induction cooker.

Robert Saunders, Chair of STCE, said:

“We’re delighted to be supporting Wellington Orbit alongside other fantastic community venues. With our share offer we can continue to secure local renewable energy and deliver even greater benefits for Shropshire and Telford communities.”

STCE is also investing in biodiversity improvements at Twemlows and exploring new renewable projects including a heat network and wind turbine in Bishop’s Castle.