Local organisations across Hampshire are being encouraged to apply for a share of £3 million in community funding from Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) – with Andover’s Hawk Conservancy Trust among those already seeing the benefits.
SSEN’s Powering Communities to Net Zero fund is now open for new applications, offering grants of up to £20,000 to support projects focused on sustainability and resilience.
The Hawk Conservancy Trust, located just outside Andover, previously received £19,100 from the fund. The money helped the charity install solar panels on the roof of its bird conservation hospital and visitor centre, helping to power the facility with clean, renewable energy.
Other past recipients include community groups in Wiltshire, Ryde, and Abbotswood, where funding has helped install flood prevention tools, emergency planning resources, and low-carbon heating systems.
Now, SSEN is inviting more non-profit organisations, parish councils and community groups across the region to apply for the next round of funding.
What’s the fund for?
There are two main funding categories:
- Resilience Grants (up to £15,000): For equipment and systems to help communities prepare for and respond to extreme weather and power outages.
- Low-Carbon Technology Grants (up to £20,000): To support projects that include heat pumps, solar panels, EV chargers, battery storage or smart energy controls.
The fund is part of SSEN’s commitment to supporting communities during severe weather and enabling the shift towards net-zero emissions.
SSEN’s Managing Director, Chris Burchell, said:
“We’re proud to support organisations like the Hawk Conservancy Trust that are making a real difference.“This fund is about helping communities become more resilient and sustainable, and we’re excited to open applications for another year.”
How to Apply
Applications are now open for the 2025/26 fund. To apply visit ssen.co.uk/pcnz. Groups must be not-for-profit and located within SSEN’s central southern England or north of Scotland licence areas.
If you’re unsure if your area is eligible, you can check here: ssen.co.uk/about-ssen/who-is-my-distributor.
Andover organisations encouraged to get involved
SSEN is keen to hear from more organisations in and around Andover. Whether you’re running a community centre, social housing scheme, or local initiative focused on sustainability or weather resilience, this funding could provide a vital boost.
For more information, application guidance, or to register interest, visit the official website or get in touch with SSEN directly.