Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Council: North Kensington Community Energy Project

• Location: Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Council

• Purpose: The council is championing clean energy to reduce emissions and tackle climate change. This partnership was launched to help boost clean local energy generation, reduce residents' bills and empower the community.

• Description: The council partnered with Repowering London to build the North Kensington Community Energy (NKCE) project, a community-owned energy enterprise. The solar panels installed provide the schools they are placed on with cheaper electricity. The community decides how to spend the profits from the solar panels placed in a community benefit fund of £28,000. Every member of the group has the same amount of votes and sway. 

• Funding: An initial £83,000 was raised to buy the solar panels through launching the community share offer. To become a member of the project via the community share with voting rights, you must make an investment or donations of a minimum of £250, but if you are under 25 or on benefits, it is £50. The investors are paid back throughout the lifetime of the project.

• Conservative councillor/ council lead: Cllr Johnny Thalassites

• Further links: North Kensington Community Energy Project link