Groups can now apply for a share of the SSEN Transmission funding from £40k to £500k
SSEN Transmission has launched its first Community Benefit Fund, allowing organisations across the north of Scotland to apply for a share of £2 million for projects which aid skills development, support the culture of local communities, and help alleviate fuel poverty.
The fund marks the beginning of what could be over £100 million in support for communities in the north of Scotland, delivered as part of the largest electricity infrastructure programme the region has ever seen.
From today, groups throughout SSEN Transmission’s network area can apply for a share of the funding from a minimum amount of £40,000 up to £500,000.
The deadline for applications is Friday, November 22, and decisions will be made in January 2025.
The launch of the Regional Fund is expected to be followed early next year by the launch of local funds dedicated to communities situated close to new infrastructure developments.
Based on initial indications from the UK Government, SSEN Transmission anticipates that over £100m in community benefit funding will be delivered in communities through its £20bn investment to upgrade the transmission network across the north of Scotland in support of UK and Scottish Government net zero and energy security ambitions.
In July, SSEN Transmission appointed former Scottish government Minister Peter Peacock as the inaugural chairman of the Regional Fund, which is overseen by an independent panel responsible for assessing applications.
Welcoming today’s launch, Peter Peacock said: “This is first and foremost a great opportunity for communities in the north of Scotland, allowing charities and community organisations to deliver transformational impact and improve places and the lives of people.
“Funding can be a tool for building wealth within communities, empowering local people to create new opportunities, meet objectives, and strengthen community assets.
“We’re looking to back good ideas that will help with skills and employability, that will create stronger places and further enrich their culture and will help tackle fuel poverty – a key issue across this region.
“If you’ve got big ideas, our Regional Community Benefit Fund has money. If we can match those ideas with that money we can deliver positive benefits in communities across the north of Scotland.”
Christianna Logan, SSEN Transmission’s director of customers and stakeholders, added: “We are immensely proud to provide substantial funding through our Regional Community Benefit Fund, paving the way for a more prosperous future in the communities we serve.
“This initiative is about far more than just financial support; it's about creating a lasting legacy that resonates for generations.
“By investing in projects that enrich lives and strengthen community bonds, we are committed to generating real, sustainable value. Our goal is to empower communities to not only meet today’s challenges but to thrive well into the future, ensuring that the benefits of this funding are felt for many years to come.”
