There are now more funds and resources to assist community groups to convert their buildings. Solar and wind power, ground pumps and other improvements are being ‘retro-fitted’ to places like schools, community buildings and sports centres.

If you want to help create pressure to “go green” – perhaps as a parent at school, churchgoer, or in a local group – Sheffield Renewables might be the best help. Established since 2007, this registered co-operative has set up many sustainable energy schemes, financed through community investment, with profits being reinvested for new work through a Community Benefit Fund.

Also Sheffield Community Energy is a helpful group which gives advice about community energy projects and funding, warm homes, schools and places of worship, and advice for households – online there is a whole list of useful documents to download.

Thanks to Karine Nohr for an article at Tell The Truth Sheffield drawing attention to these useful resources.