North Wales Clean Energy Fund will power sector progress
Part of the North Wales Growth Deal, the fund will support clean energy and decarbonisation projects for businesses and voluntary sector organisations.
Cllr Gary Pritchard, lead member for the Low Carbon Energy Programme at Ambition North Wales and leader of Isle of Anglesey Council, said: "I was immensely proud to be part of the launch, and now to see the fund up and running.
"It will mean that green energy projects based in North Wales can begin and progress more quickly.
"By supporting innovative businesses and community-driven projects, we are fostering a more sustainable, prosperous future for the region."
The fund will run for an initial five-year period and includes two dedicated sub-funds.
The first, led by the Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA), targets charities, social enterprises, and community-led projects.
The second, delivered by UMi, is aimed at private sector businesses.
A third reserve fund will consider applications from other organisations and funding models.
The fund will support a variety of clean energy solutions, including storage, energy efficiency, decarbonisation, and renewable energy generation.
It is expected to deliver £100 million of investment in the region, create 150 jobs, and cut up to 125,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
The launch event was held at Coleg Llandrillo's Engineering Centre in Rhyl, which houses a renewable energy technology training facility.
Rebecca Evans, cabinet secretary for economy, energy and planning, welcomed the scheme.
She said: "The launch of the Clean Energy Fund is fantastic news for North Wales, opening the door to more opportunities for the region's thriving clean energy sector.
"With its abundant natural resources, skilled workforce, and commitment to sustainability, North Wales is uniquely positioned to lead the way in harnessing renewable energy.
"I look forward to seeing innovative developments that will drive economic growth while advancing our transition to a greener future."
Dame Nia Griffith, Wales Office minister, shared her support in a video message during the event.
She said: "The Clean Energy Fund helps to cement North Wales's growing reputation in the clean energy sector.
"This fund, supported by investment from the UK Government, will ensure the sector continues to flourish and create new well-paid jobs."
The fund supports the North Wales Regional Energy Strategy, which aims to increase renewable energy use and promote local ownership of clean energy assets.
Further details and application information are available at ambitionnorth.wales/low-carbon-energy/clean-energy-fund.
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