Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone Community Panel Awards First Grants
The Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone Community Fund panel have announced the first round of awards from the Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone Community Fund, selecting 11 local initiatives to receive funding. This marks an exciting milestone in the Fund’s mission to support vibrant, resilient, and sustainable projects that directly benefit the local community.
This initial round, known as the Discovery Phase, is designed to build a deeper understanding of the specific needs of communities closest to the wind farm’s onshore infrastructure. The Norfolk Community Foundation, as the appointed community investment steward, is working alongside the panel—composed of local residents—to ensure the Fund reflects the voices and priorities of those it serves.
Informed by years of community consultation, the Discovery Phase will help shape the Fund’s future direction. By focusing on projects that foster strong, connected communities, the panel aims to support initiatives that enable people to live, thrive, and build sustainable futures.
Among the successful applicants are projects dedicated to improving local energy sustainability, including the installation of solar panels on community village halls in Swanton Morley and Bawdeswell. Other grants will support energy efficiency improvements in facilities used for essential services, such as a food bank, helping reduce operational costs so more resources can be directed toward those in need. Funding has also been awarded to nature clubs, giving children hands-on opportunities to engage with wildlife, conservation, and sustainability.
Community-led decision-making plays a crucial role in the Fund’s development, ensuring that funding is directed to projects that truly matter to local residents.
Panel member Rex Warner MBE said, “The community panel, which is made up of local people, gives us the opportunity to listen, understand challenges and opportunities in the area, and direct funding to projects that truly matter. It is fulfilling to help fund projects which build stronger, better-connected communities.”
Natalie Songer, another panel member, added, “I’m excited to join the Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone Community Fund panel to advocate for the fabulous local organisations we have here in Norfolk and play a part in supporting them to continue their great work for their communities.”
The Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone Community Fund was established in partnership with RWE, whose three offshore wind projects in Norfolk launched the Fund in 2024. RWE is committed to long-term community investment, with more than £160 million set to be distributed through its ‘Future Bright’ community benefit funds across the UK. The company is proud to collaborate with the Norfolk Community Foundation in delivering meaningful, locally driven support.
For a full list of awards and details on the next funding round, visit our Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone Community Fund page. To stay up to date with the latest news about the Fund and the Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone, sign up for the Norfolk Zone e-news.
