Empowering local initiatives, fostering resilience, and building brighter futures is core to RWE’s Future Bright programme. RWE, the UK’s largest power generator and leading renewable energy company, has published the latest Future Bright update, celebrating the remarkable impact of its community investment initiatives.
To date, RWE’s onshore and offshore wind farm projects have contributed a staggering £41.8 million to community funds across the UK, driving meaningful change and strengthening local resilience.
In just the first 9 months of 2024, RWE has delivered £3.3 million in community funds, significant investment that has helped to create 27 new jobs and safeguarded 55 existing roles. It has also helped to create 1,142 education and training opportunities and funded placements for 835 volunteers.
Critically this funding empowers local communities by putting local people in charge of funding decisions. Local decision making panels are put in place for each fund, as being best placed to channel funds to address pressing challenges that matter to local people, including climate change, health and wellbeing, environmental protection, and economic sustainability.
Katy Woodington, RWE Senior Community Investment Manager, remarked, “The stories in our most recent Future Bright update highlight the profound impact that community-driven initiatives have on people’s lives. These projects, powered by local creativity and commitment, are paving the way for a more sustainable, resilient, and united future.”
Funding in Action: Transformative Stories
RSPCA Llys Nini: A grant from the Mynydd y Gwair Wind Farm Fund enabled the creation of a bee corridor, boosting biodiversity and supporting Swansea’s Bee Keepers. In addition, enhancements to the outdoor space ensure year-round access for visitors. “Llys Nini not only delivers happy endings to thousands of animals but has also become a central part of the community,” said Sally from RSPCA Llys Nini.
6th Llangyfelach Scout Group: A £15,000 grant transformed an unsafe outdoor area into a secure space for play, learning, and nature exploration. Future plans include creating a scout campsite to generate income and expand opportunities. Michael Horst, 6th Llangyfelach Scout Group, noted, “This project has opened the door to outdoor activities in a safe space, where Beavers, Cubs, and Scouts can learn, grow, and engage with local wildlife.”
Friends of Coed Gwilym Park: A £35,000 grant from the Mynydd y Gwair Wind Farm Fund enabled the rebuilding of the Community Pavilion, a vital hub for sports, walking trails, and local activities. New funding will also provide a community bus and car, enhancing accessibility for residents needing hospital and GP transport.
Through projects that enhance local employment, fight climate change, and bring communities together, RWE’s community fund programme underscores the company’s dedication to empowering local voices, and helping strengthen the neighbouring communities within which it works.
Community funds set up by RWE are managed directly by local independent organizations. Funding decisions are made by panels of local representatives who understand their communities best with the process designed to be flexible and easily accessible, allowing communities to drive their own development initiatives. With a growing portfolio of renewable energy projects, RWE is committed to expanding its community fund programme and fostering new partnerships. The company will continue supporting local initiatives that bring people together, protect the environment, and create opportunities for future generations.
For more information about RWE’s community funds and to the most recent update, visit uk.rwe.com/empowering-communities.
