Cash for community energy schemes

Communities across Cumbria are to benefit from funding to develop renewable energy projects.

The government has given £34,500 to Cumbria and Lancashire Renewables (Claren) to foster green power schemes.

So far the organisation has helped develop community wood burners, home solar cells, ground source heat pumps and wind turbines.

Since its creation in 2003, Claren has provided help for more than 100 community-based projects.

Many of the communities are not linked to the national grid or do not have access to mains piped gas.

Claren manager Elizabeth Bruce said: "We see community renewable projects as being at the heart of the renewable revolution.

"They involve local communities in their own energy solutions and can promote knowledge and understanding about alternative energy sources and renewable technologies."