Local energy projects in Wales will share over £12.9 million in grants.
The 48 projects won funding from the Ynni Cymru Capital Grant Scheme, which aims to accelerate the deployment of Smart Local Energy Systems (SLES).
Successful projects include £910,000 for the Wales Millennium Centre to invest in solar panels, a new battery energy storage system, EV chargers and solar thermal for hot water, and almost £750,000 for Coleg Cambria towards creating a low carbon learning hub and energy-efficient building.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “There is clearly an appetite for energy systems that keep the benefits within our communities, and I’m delighted we are able to support so many quality projects.
In South Cornelly in Bridgend, Challoch Energy Ltd and the South Cornelly Renewable Energy Community Interest Company (SCRE-CIC) partnered to create the South Cornelly Local Energy Market. Solar panels, battery storage and smart controls have been added to over 50 homes with residents able to save 20-50% on their energy bills as a result.
Managing Director of Challoch Energy, Dr Simon Minett, said: “The Ynni Cymru grant support last year was the catalyst of change and is the first major step in creating the smart local energy system to benefit all residents. We think this is a blueprint for other Welsh rural communities to be inspired by.”