Neston Community Energy Secures GB Energy Community Fund Support for Local Renewable Energy Feasibility Study at Leahurst Campus, University of Liverpool
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Neston Community Energy, a Community Benefit Society*, has been awarded funding from the GB Energy Community Fund to undertake a feasibility study aimed at accelerating locally owned renewable energy and reducing energy costs for residents in and around the CH64 area.
The funding will support early-stage investigation into renewable energy generation at the Leahurst Campus which houses the School of Veterinary Science and two associated farms, which are owned and managed by the University of Liverpool.
The feasibility study aims to identify the best means to develop low carbon renewable generation at the site, to the benet of the climate, operational costs for the University and for community benet in Neston.
Leahurst is the largest rural employer in the Neston area where it has operated and built a presence since WWII. Today its staff and student community are a signicant 1000 strong presence in our small town. The University has been working to reduce the carbon impact of its operations across its estate, so we are excited to have this opportunity to work with such a significant partner on this feasibility study.
Exploring Rural and Rooftop Renewable Energy
The feasibility study will focus on investigating the potential for solar and/or wind installations on campus and farm buildings, and explore agrivoltaics and small-scale wind where appropriate, subject to local consultation and planning permission.
The project will explore opportunities to install renewable energy schemes on suitable farm buildings and in elds where productive agricultural use can also be maintained.
Strengthening the Local Energy System
Andy Mills the current Chair of Neston Community Energy said: “Securing this support from the GB Energy Community Fund is an important step in exploring how locally owned renewable energy and innovative energy sharing can benefitt the Neston community. The study will help us understand what is possible at the Leahurst site and how local people can play a direct role in shaping and owning the future energy system in our area.”
The feasibility study will take place over the coming months, with findings helping to inform the next stage of development and community engagement.
*A Community Benefit Society is a member-owned organisation that runs a business speci%cally to benefit a community rather than its members.
