RWE’s Norfolk Offshore Wind Farms Community Fund has opened a second discovery round of applications, offering a further £90,000 to support local projects that bring communities closer to nature, strengthen climate resilience, and champion sustainable transport.
Stewarded by the Norfolk Community Foundation on behalf of RWE, this next phase of discovery funding will again provide grants of up to £10,000 for initiatives taking place in or benefiting parishes located along the onshore cable route of the three offshore wind projects under development. The aim of the discovery funding is to help Norfolk Community Foundation, and the fund community panel to build a better understanding of the specific needs, challenges and opportunities for communities living nearest to the onshore infrastructure of the wind farm projects.
At the heart of the Fund is the Community Panel, a group of local residents with deep knowledge of the area. Their role is pivotal, setting priorities and making decisions to ensure that funding directly supports projects that matter most to their communities.
Following the first successful discovery round earlier this year, the Fund has been refined with input from both applicants and the Panel. This feedback has sharpened the focus on two key themes - green spaces and sustainable transport - reflecting local priorities and ensuring funding can have the greatest possible impact.
Helen Lindsay, member of the Norfolk Community Panel, said: ”When I applied to be a panel member for the RWE community fund, I didn't realise how many fantastic local projects could be supported. We've helped to reduce heating costs for village halls, increased access to green spaces and funded projects that teach others how to grow vegetables. It's great to see how even modest amounts of funding can make such a difference to local communities, encourage sustainability and bring people together to share and improve our environment.”
Katy Woodington, RWE Community Investment Lead, added: “The Norfolk Offshore Wind Farms Community Fund is about much more than financial support, it’s about local empowerment. By listening to community voices and learning from the first round, we’re making sure this Fund directly supports the ambitions and needs of Norfolk’s residents.”
Since launching in 2024, the Fund has already awarded grants to 11 community projects, supporting vibrant, resilient, and sustainable communities across Norfolk.
For a full list of awards and more details about the Norfolk Offshore Wind Farms Community Fund, visit the Norfolk Community Foundation website. To stay up to date and receive the latest news about the projects Community Fund directly in your inbox, sign up for RWE’s Norfolk e-newsletter.
For more information about RWE’s offshore windfarms in Norfolk please visit the project website.