Celebrating local climate action and over £180,000 of community funding

These groups have all been supported by the Vattenfall Unlock Our Future Fund, with a total of £181,000 funding to deliver climate smart projects.

The celebration was held at Garioch Heritage Centre, Inverurie, with award winners thanked for their community and environmental efforts. They also had the opportunity to hear from previously funded projects about successes and lessons learned through a number of short presentations.

Those who spoke included Blackdog Residents Association, who described their project to decarbonise community park maintenance by installing solar panels which now power an electric mower, strimmer and chainsaw.

Curl Aberdeen spoke about their new smart controls that had reduced their energy consumption by around a quarter, resulting in substantial cost savings.

Culter Theatre Club described how moving to LED stage lighting not only reduced their energy consumption by 80% but also improved the experience for volunteers, performers and audiences, with lighting that is quieter, cooler and allows for more creativity.

And Slains Environmental Action for Change talked about the impact of installing solar panels and a ground source heat pump in Slains Kirk, as well as developing a solar-powered watering system for their community garden polytunnel, all helping support their community hub vision.

There was plenty of time for groups to share experiences and exchange ideas over coffee and cake with new connections made between organisations. The event concluded with thanks from Steve Mackison, Deputy Lieutenant of Aberdeenshire, who commended all the participants on their projects and project plans.

The Vattenfall Unlock Our Future Fund, now in its eighth year, is provided by Aberdeen Offshore Wind Farm Ltd, which is a subsidiary of Vattenfall, and is administered by Foundation Scotland. The annual fund supports climate-smart community projects that make a lasting difference to local people and places. Climate-smart projects not only cut carbon emissions, but also result in lower running costs, warmer spaces and happier volunteers.

Decisions on funding awards are made by a panel of local volunteers.

Guy Haslam, Chair of the panel, said:

"The Vattenfall Unlock Our Future panel is delighted to award over £180,000 of grants this year to 18 different organisations in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. The money supports projects which really benefit their local communities, and the environment. We congratulate all the award winners."

Kerry Birse from Vattenfall, said:

“It’s fantastic to see the difference the Unlock Our Future Fund is making for communities across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. These projects show how local groups can turn their ideas into practical improvements that create lasting benefits for local people.”

The fund will open again in 2027 and groups with climate-smart project ideas are encouraged to contact Foundation Scotland who administer the fund for advice and support with their application.

For more information visit the fund page or contact Marion McDonald: 07912 759524 or email [email protected]