Community groups across South Ayrshire are being invited to apply for funding.
as SP Energy Networks opens the third round of its Community Benefit Funding programme, with more than £5 million available for local projects.
Organisations across South Ayrshire, Dumfries and Galloway and South Lanarkshire will be able to apply for support linked to major electricity transmission infrastructure projects taking place in their areas.
The funding is designed to support projects that improve community facilities, boost health and wellbeing, strengthen local resilience, create opportunities for young people and deliver environmental improvements.
The Community Benefit Funding programme was launched in April and SP Energy Networks says more than £1.6 million has already been approved for projects across South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway during the first two rounds.
Applications for the third round opened on Monday, September 28.
For communities in South Ayrshire, funding includes the Chirmorie Overhead Line Fund, which is available to groups supporting the Barrhill community.
The Mark Hill Substation Fund is available to organisations supporting Barrhill, Girvan, Pinmore and Pinwherry.
Other funds opening as part of the latest round include the Stranoch Overhead Line Fund for Barrhill and New Luce, the Coalburn North Substation Fund for Coalburn and Lesmahagow, and the LORG Fund for Carsphairn.
Jamie Reid, Community and Sustainability Director at SP Energy Networks, said:
“This third round of funding represents a significant opportunity for local organisations to secure investment for projects that really matter to their communities.
“We know first-hand the incredible work being carried out by community groups, charities and volunteers across these areas and we’re keen to support initiatives that deliver meaningful and lasting benefits for local people.
“Whether it’s upgrading community facilities, delivering environmental improvements, creating opportunities for young people or supporting vulnerable members of the community, we would encourage organisations to come forward with their ideas.”
The Community Benefit Funding programme recognises the role communities play in hosting new electricity transmission infrastructure.
The infrastructure is being developed to strengthen the electricity network, improve reliability for homes and businesses and allow more renewable energy to be connected to the grid.
SP Energy Networks says its Community Benefit Fund is intended to ensure the transition towards a cleaner energy system also provides practical and long-term benefits for communities across central and southern Scotland.
Eligible community organisations can find full details, application forms and eligibility criteria through the SP Energy Networks Community Benefit Funding website.
Residents and community groups in eligible areas can also submit ideas for potential projects by emailing communitybenefits@spenergynetworks.co.uk.
