Aims/Priorities: This fund aims to stimulate and assist community sustainability projects in Oldham and the surrounding area, particularly projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In this funding round, priority will be given to applications that will enable young people to participate in activities concerning renewable energy and projects that deal with the reduction of carbon emissions, biodiversity, climate change, and repair and recycling.
Priority will also be given to projects that reduce green gas emissions, such as:
- Renewable energy projects, ie installing solar panels, heat pumps, extra insulation, micro-hydro or wind energy generation, renewable energy storage devices etc.
- Tree planting, providing sites can be found.
- Reducing private car use through home working, walking/cycling to school or work, car sharing schemes etc.
- Seeking additional cycle routes, repair and upgrade of existing footpaths and cycleways.
- Provision of electric or hybrid vehicles or charging points.
- Showing people the cost savings made by, for example, turning down the thermostat.
Who can apply: Constituted not-for-profit organisations with at least three members on the governing body and a bank account with at least unrelated signatories can apply, including:
- Schools.
- Community groups.
- Clubs.
- Societies.
- Faith organisations.
Grant amount: Grants of up to around £20,000 are available, depending on the scale of the proposed project. Large amounts are only for exceptional projects and availability will be extremely limited.
Application process: Guidance notes and an application form are available from the Saddleworth Community Hydro website. Completed applications should be submitted by email.
Deadline: Friday 30 October 2026
Contact info: enquiries@saddleworthhydro.co.uk