The first application has been submitted to the Rectory Green Fund for consideration. A charge from the Diocese of Aberdeen and Orkney has submitted an application for funding to install insulation in their rectory with the goal of lowering costs and emissions, raising the EPC and improving heat retention. The project will be funded through matched Diocesan and Provincial funds.
The application was returned to the charge after consideration by the Provincial Net Zero team within a week of it being shared. From here the application will be reviewed by the Diocesan Buildings Group, when it will then move on for final consideration at the Provincial Buildings Grants Group.
The Provincial Buildings Grants Group meets four times a year; March, May/June, September and December. Applications to the Rectory Green Fund must be received by the General Synod Office at least three weeks prior to the next meeting at which they are to be discussed.
The Rectory Green Fund provides financial assistance to charges undertaking works to clergy housing to improve their energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprint. Rectories should have a minimum standard of an EPC of C, funds can be used to improve EPCs with the goal of reaching, getting closer to or exceeding this level. Grants of up to £5,000 are available for such works, and all provincial funds must be matched on the diocesan level. Any works designed to improve energy efficiency or reduce carbon footprint will be considered, for example; insulation, radiant heat, energy efficient heating systems, double-glazing or replacement windows/doors and more.
Any application must be endorsed by a member of the provincial net zero team, so reach out to your diocesan contact within the net zero team to develop a project. For more information, guidance notes and application forms, please visit this link or download the form below.
Jack Nevin, Innovation Coordinator
