Rural Carbon Challenge Fund

The Rural Carbon Challenge Fund (RCCF) is a £4 million initiative managed by the Northwest Development Agency (NWDA) to support community based renewable energy projects which deliver training, employment opportunities and improved renewable energy facilities for the rural economy and rural communities in England’s North West.

The programme is funded through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. This has the overall aim of improving the competitiveness of the agricultural and forestry sectors, the quality of life in rural areas, the diversification of the rural economy and the living conditions and welfare of those living in rural areas.

The specific goal of the Rural Carbon Challenge Fund is to benefit the rural economy and rural communities by supporting community level demonstration projects. The expected outcomes of funded projects include job creation, training and the provision of renewable energy in rural communities. On the supply side, it will support microenterprises to set up or expand a renewable energy business as well as supporting training provision for a range of organisations. On the demand side it will support businesses, social enterprises, charities, and formally constituted community groups with the capital costs of renewable energy projects.

Priority will be given to projects that focus on the use of wind, hydro and wood fuel; whilst not excluding other energy generating technologies. Projects which incorporate aspects of micro-enterprise development, training and renewable energy provision, are encouraged.

Competition Opens 22nd March 2010

Optional Briefing events 14th April 2010, Warrington Wolves RFC, Warrington

19th April, Rheged Centre, Penrith

Deadline for Expression of Interest 1st June 2010 17.00

Feedback on Expressions of Interest provided 30th June 2010

Concept Stage opens (for invited applications) 1st July 2010

Deadline for receipt of full applications 31st August 2010

Decision to applicants 17th September 2010

Final contracts must be signed 31st December 2010

Deadline for projects to commence 31st December 2010

Projects must be installed and fully operational 31st March 2013

The programme will be delivered in partnership by Envirolink Northwest and Energy Saving Trust. Both parties will be available to support potential applicants throughout the application process. Help includes the qualification of project ideas and the development of alliances between potential partners. Support will also be available in post award activity to help successful applicants develop and deliver the outputs of their projects.

If you are a formally constituted community group you can receive help and support in submitting your EOI and full application from the Energy Saving Trust.

Charlotte Jackson on 07951 592091 or charlotte.jackson@est.org.uk

If you are a social enterprise, charity or business you can receive help and support in submitting your EOI and full application from Envirolink Northwest.

Please contact: Simon Gutteridge on 01925 813200 or rccf@envirolinknorthwest.co.uk

Please follow the links below for further information on the fund, including the expression of interest form, frequently asked questions and updated guidance for applicants.