Council’s green energy grant powers community projects

The scheme, funded by the Rural Prosperity Fund, was created to support Town and Parish Councils and community groups in installing electric vehicle charging points (EVCP) and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems—bringing renewable technology to the heart of our rural communities.

Installations took place at village halls and community buildings, directly benefiting local residents, electric vehicle users, and taxpayers by reducing energy costs and improving access to charging infrastructure.

Council Leader, Cllr Daniel Elmer, said:

This scheme has shown what’s possible when we work together to invest in cleaner, greener infrastructure. Delivering 11 projects across South Norfolk—many combining both electric vehicle charging and solar power—demonstrates our commitment to supporting communities in embracing sustainable technology. We are helping residents reduce their carbon footprint, preparing for a more energy-resilient future while protected our environment by putting solar panels on buildings rather than in farmers’ fields.

The completed projects include:

• 6 sites with both EVCP and solar PV at Tacolneston Village Hall, Forncett Village Hall, Carleton Rode Jubilee Hall, Bawburgh Village Hall, Norton, Thurlton and Thorpe Village Hall, and Roydon Village Hall.
• 4 sites with EVCP only at The Willow Centre (Cringleford), Queen’s Hills Community Centre (Costessey), Brooke Village Hall, and The Pennoyer Centre (Pulham St Mary).
• 1 site with solar PV only at Wortwell Community Centre By expanding the public charging network, the scheme not only supports current EV drivers but also encourages more residents to make the switch to electric vehicles—helping to reduce emissions and improve air quality across the district.

The scheme has now closed. For more information on alternative green grants the Council has available, please search green grants on our website.