SP Energy Networks' new Community Benefit programmeis now accepting applications
"It's about backing local people with the resources, knowledge and tools they need to build a stronger future."
SP Energy Networks has announced the opening of its new Community Benefit funding programme. The first tranche of funding will offer grants from a pot of £7.8m alongside practical support to community groups based near eligible transmission infrastructure. This grant, funded by SP Energy Networks and developed in close cooperation with local communities, is committed to delivering lasting and impactful benefits to the people and places where eligible electricity transmission infrastructure projects take place.
With an easy application process and quick funding distribution, we are now actively seeking projects to help fund. The funding aims to deliver lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits, ensuring local people share in the opportunities created by SP Energy Networks' work to deliver a transmission network fit for the future.
Key information & dates:
- Launches: 20th January 2026
- Grants £1,000 - £10,000
- First panel deadline 13th March, 5pm
- First panel outcomes by the end of May
"It's about backing local people with the resources, knowledge and tools they need to build a stronger future. Investing in the grid is about more than just infrastructure, it's also about leaving a positive legacy for the areas we serve."
Guy Jefferson, Transmission Managing Director
SP Energy Networks
Who can apply?
If you are a charity, community group or CIC within the Community Council areas listed below, we’d like to hear from you
Unsure of your Community Council?
Add postcode and we'll direct you.
Chirmorie Overhead Line Fund
Clyde South Overhead Lines Fund
Coalburn North New Substation Fund
Mark Hill Substation Upgrade Fund
Sanquhar New Substation Fund
What are we looking for?
We are seeking positive and impactful projects in the above areas hosting SP Energy Networks projects, which support one or more of the following themes:
- Strengthening financial resilience and educational inclusion (Relieving pressure on families and financial inequalities, improving financial literacy and extracurricular learning opportunities for young people)
- Employability support and skills development (Job readiness, training and career support, including help for carers and parents re-entering the workplace)
- Social and digital inclusion, wellbeing and active lifestyles (Reducing isolation, improving mental health and encouraging healthy living)
- Improving community spaces and buildings (Accessibility, safety, sustainable upgrades, energy and resource efficiency)
- Enhancing green spaces and access to nature (Biodiversity, conservation and nature-based activities)
- Sustainable and inclusive transport (Affordable, accessible and healthier travel options and walking/cycling schemes for communities)
Grants of between £1,000 and £10,000 are available. The fund will accept applications from Tuesday 20th January until Friday 8th May at 5pm. Organisations submitting an application before 5pm 13th March can expect to receive an outcome from the first funding panel in May. Applicants submitting after 13th March before the deadline on Friday 8th May will be assessed at a second panel and can expect to be informed of the outcome in July.
Building a positive legacy
SP Energy Networks together with Localgiving has ensured its community benefit funds are aligned with community interests and priorities by undertaking extensive research and engaging collaboratively with local communities. Key community priorities were identified through our consultations, with fund applicants required to deliver on at least one area of local improvement through their project.
Guy Jefferson, Transmission Managing Director at SP Energy Networks, said on the opening of the Fund: “This new funding programme reflects our belief that the communities who host our infrastructure should also share in the benefits it brings. It’s about backing local people with the resources, knowledge and tools they need to build a stronger future. Investing in the grid is about more than just infrastructure, it’s also about leaving a positive legacy for the areas we serve. This funding is one way we’re making sure communities aren’t just part of the transition to a greener future, they’re at the heart of it.”
Further information about the process can be found below in our FAQs and in our Guidance Document which includes important eligibility information and key questions answered.
Visit a local priority page above to start your application.
If you need assistance or have any questions, please contact our Community Team by emailing:
SPENGrassrootsGrants@Localgiving.orgWe look forward to supporting your cause
and community!
Programme documents
FAQs
If you've got any questions about the campaign, you're probably not the only one so have a scan of our FAQs to check if you're query has not already been answered. If you're still feeling lost then please feel free to get in touch with our support team.