Environmental improvements to save community groups millions

Community groups in Northern Ireland are hoping to save millions through making their buildings more eco-friendly.

At a time when many are struggling with the cost of fuel, the groups are to be supported to save money on bills and cut carbon emissions by moves such as the installation of solar panels and upgrading insulation.

Some 38 small charities across four council areas are to benefit from the first round of grants from the National Lottery Community Fund’s Sustainable Community Buildings programme.

They are expected to save between £600 and £7,606 each year through the move, with total savings estimated at over £2.2 million over the next 20 years.

Emissions are also expected to be cut by 165,000 kg of CO2 per year, equivalent to that produced by 38 diesel cars or charging over 13 million smart phones.

Lilac Cancer Support, in Mid Ulster, are to use a £39,574 grant to install solar panels with battery storage, electrical heating installation, roof insulation and LED lighting in their hub in Coalisland.

Ann Walsh, chairwoman of Lilac Cancer Support, described a “life-changing investment” for the group which is set to save over £2,000 per year or £40,000 over the next 20 years.

“We can use this money for developing services and running more courses like our mindfulness or gardening groups, all which make the world of a difference to person going through cancer treatment or recovery,” she said.

“Our building has a long and interesting history in our community, originally being a mill, but it’s always hard to heat.

“These improvements will help us make it a warm and comfortable hub for families getting support for living with cancer.

“This grant is just the start.

“It’s so important to look after the environment for future generations while we care for local people now.”

Kilkeel Development Association has also been awarded a £50,999 grant to install solar panels with battery storage, LED lighting and replace doors on their building, The Nautilus Centre.

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Sophie Annett, centre manager from Kilkeel Development Association said the building is also home to other groups including Women’s Aid and the Recovery College.

“Our location in a seaside town has a detrimental impact on the building which in turn means more costs in repairs and energy bills,” she said.

“This grant will make a massive long-term difference to us, through savings of over £7,000 each year, that’s at least £140,000 over the next 20, meaning we can keep rents lower, are more secure long-term and can further invest in our community.”

The National Lottery Community Fund will reopen the Sustainable Community Buildings programme for applications from Wednesday March 12 2025 to Wednesday April 23 2025.

Kate Beggs, Northern Ireland director of The National Lottery Community Fund, encouraged groups to apply.

“Helping communities be more environmentally sustainable is a priority of our strategy to 2030,” she said.

“Throughout 2024, we listened to groups and heard more about the challenges they face to keep their doors open due to rising energy bills.

“We know the demand is there and look forward to reopening the programme again in March to help organisations, large and small, who own or long-term lease a community building, anywhere in Northern Ireland.

“This will help make a big impact across the sector, with National Lottery funding supporting groups to save money on running costs while reducing their carbon emissions and learning more about supporting the environment, bringing back learning to their community.

“We look forward to seeing what will be achieved.”

For more information on National Lottery funding visit: www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/northern-ireland