UK retailer Marks & Spencer has launched its Energy Community Energy Fund, which will donate £350,000 to energy projects and technologies across the UK.
The project, now in its second year, makes funds available for any not-for-profit organisation that wants to use renewable energy to provide community benefits.
The fund is open to any community energy group, sports club, library, amateur dramatic society, village hall or school and winners will be decided by public vote after a shortlisting process. Last year, a total of 246 applications were made, with 26 projects receiving funding after the voting process.
Jonathan Hazeldine, head of M&S Energy said: “It’s been fantastic to see so many innovative and inspirational projects benefit from the 2015 M&S Energy Community Energy Fund. We’re excited to begin the search for more groups who can really make a difference to their local communities.
"As a 100 per cent green energy provider, supporting those who share our vision of a sustainable future through renewable energy is really important to our company, our customers and our colleagues.”
Applications are now open and will close on 31 May. Applicants will be shortlisted by a panel including M&S, SSE, Energyshare and an independent judge. Projects will be considered based upon their social and environmental impact and on meeting a variety of business and environmental criteria.
© 2016 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by John Golden. To subscribe to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine, click here.
