NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS
We are pleased to launch the first round of the Porth Wen Community Benefit Fund, offering £10,000 for community projects in Cemaes and Amlwch.
About the project
EDF Renewables UK has appointed Menter Môn to manage their Porth Wen Solar Farm Community Benefit Fund. This marks an exciting milestone in the establishment of the Porth Wen Solar Farm Community Benefit Fund. EDF Renewables UK will invest £20,000 per year over the lifetime of the solar farm into the fund which will be available to the local communities of Cemaes and Amlwch as well as the two local schools. Menter Môn will also contribute our fee for managing the fund.
What’s Available?
- £8,000 for projects in Cemaes
- £2,000 for projects in Amlwch
- Up to £2,000 per application
Empowering Local Communities
The fund acknowledges that Cemaes and Amlwch will host the Porth Wen solar farm for 30 years and aims to support residents to develop community focused initiatives which will enhance outdoor spaces, celebrate the Welsh language and local heritage, and protect biodiversity.
Menter Môn will work with individuals, groups, social enterprises, and businesses to ensure the fund supports projects that meet community needs. Whether it’s communal gardens, sports activities, or local events, this funding is designed to bring people together and create lasting impact.
Investing in Education
As part of this commitment, £10,000 has already been allocated to local schools in Cemaes and Amlwch, supporting educational projects that will benefit the area’s young people.
How to Apply
Please read the fund guidelines here carefully before submitting your application. You can then apply for funding, outlining your project, its community benefits, and the funding needed and matched funding available.
Application Deadline: Friday, 30th of May 2025.
If successful, applicants will be contacted to discuss the next steps.
Thank you to EDF Renewables for supporting local communities.
FAQs
2. Who can apply for funding?
Eligible applicants include:
- Community groups
- Individuals
- Town councils
- Voluntary organisations
Applicants must be based in Cemaes or Amlwch and must have a bank or building society account in the organisation’s name before applying.
3. How much funding can I apply for?
You can apply for grants between £500 and £2,000.
4. Is match funding required?
- Most applicants must provide at least 20% match funding (e.g., if your project costs £2,000, you can apply for £1,600 and need to source the remaining £400 elsewhere).
- Donations in-kind do not count as match funding.
- If you cannot provide 20% match funding, you can still apply but must explain why in your application.
5. Can I apply for funding every year?
No. Successful applicants cannot apply in consecutive years. For example, if you receive a grant in 2025, you cannot reapply until 2027.
6. What types of projects are eligible for funding?
Projects must fall into one of these categories:
- education and training
- biodiversity and habitat conservation
- vibrant, healthy, and sustainable communities
- promoting community spirit and activity
- improving outdoor spaces
- supporting employment in the area
Projects that celebrate Welsh language and heritage or enhance biodiversity are encouraged.
7. Are there any exclusions?
Yes, funding can’t be used for:
- Commercial organisations
- Private membership-based sports clubs with restricted access
- Projects benefiting only one individual
- Projects promoting racial or religious division, political campaigns, or hatred
- Retrospective funding (projects that have already started)
- Statutory responsibilities (e.g., public highways, car parks, school improvements that fall under the Local Education Authority)
- Projects against renewable energy
8. How are applications assessed?
The panel will assess applications based on:
- Community Benefit – How the project positively impacts the community
- Community Resilience – Does it support new ideas and long-term benefits?
- Welsh Language – Does it promote the Welsh language?
- Practicality – Feasibility, timeframes, and financial planning
- Additional Considerations – Use of local contractors, value for money, and the number of beneficiaries
9. How do I apply?
- Read the guidelines carefully.
- Complete the application form.
- Submit before the deadline: 30/05/2025.
10. Where can I find more information?
Full details, including eligibility and funding conditions, are available in the funding guidelines.
