MK City Council makes funding available for community carbon-cutting projects

Milton Keynes City Council have said local organisations looking to lower energy costs, reduce carbon emissions and make their buildings more sustainable can now apply for grants.

Funds of up to £30,000 have been made available through Milton Keynes City Council’s Carbon Offset Fund, which the City Council says is now open for applications and offers financial support to charities, schools, parish and town councils, and other eligible public and not-for-profit groups across Milton Keynes.

Support is available for a range of improvements that can help organisations become greener and more energy efficient, including solar panels, heat pumps, insulation and low-energy lighting.

The latest round is open until 5 October 2026, giving applicants the chance to bring forward projects that will deliver long-term environmental benefits while helping to reduce running costs.

Since its launch, the Carbon Offset Fund has backed 31 projects across Milton Keynes, providing almost £2.9 million to help local organisations cut their carbon footprint and improve the sustainability of their buildings.

Previous projects supported by the fund include improvements at Newport Pagnell Baptist Church’s Lovat Hall, which received funding towards a major redevelopment to create a more energy-efficient community facility. The project includes sustainable upgrades such as an air source heat pump and improved insulation, helping to secure the future of a building used by more than 30 community groups while reducing its environmental impact.

The scheme is financed through Section 106 carbon offset contributions paid by developers.

Applications can be made for up to £30,000, with organisations required to provide at least 50% match funding. Submissions will be assessed after the closing date, with successful projects selected through a competitive process.

For more information and to apply, visit www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/carbon-offset-fund

Cabinet Member for Planning and Sustainability, Cllr Jenny Wilson-Marklew, said, “Milton Keynes has an ambitious goal to become carbon neutral, and we’re helping local organisations take practical steps to support that. Whether it’s installing solar panels, improving insulation or upgrading heating systems, these projects can cut emissions, reduce energy costs and create lasting benefits for local communities. We’ve already seen some fantastic projects come forward through the scheme and I encourage eligible institutions to apply.

“Community buildings, schools and local facilities are at the heart of our neighbourhoods. This support can help with investment in sustainability, lowering running costs and make a real contribution to a low-carbon future.”