THE government has launched a £10m fund to encourage communities to reduce carbon emissions.

Local authorities, charities and social enterprises are all being urged to take up the challenge to help communities fight climate change.

Communities can apply for a share of the money as part of the Low Carbon Communities Challenge, building on low carbon schemes.

About a quarter of UK greenhouse gas emissions are from heating, lighting and powering electrical appliances in homes.

By 2050 this needs to be almost zero if the UK is to cut its emissions by 80% highlighting the importance of local action.

Some 20 successful communities will each receive support to pay for real measures selected by the local residents themselves.

Energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband said: “We’re searching for communities across the country to kick start the low carbon revolution.

“The challenge is an opportunity for communities to lead the way so that everyone can play their part in tacking climate change and save money on fuel bills.

A covering letter explaining introducing the fund can be downloaded by clicking here (305KB pdf file).

An application form can be downloaded here (751KB Word file).

A Q&A and guidance on forming partnerships are available on the Low Carbon Communities Challenge website here.

Mr Miliband said: “The UK has the most ambitious emissions reduction commitments in the world and projects like this will develop the policies we need to be successful.

“With just over two months to go until the crucial climate talks at Copenhagen, the UK is well placed to show it is taking action in all areas to combat climate change.”

Successful measures could range from a local biomass plant to retrofitting homes to electric car charge points.

The 20 communities will act as national blueprints so the government can develop policies that help reduce carbon emission nationally.

Applications will be assessed and shortlisted by an advisory group made up of government officials and external organisations.

The challenge is scheduled to start in January 2010.

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