Through the Roof: VCSE Energy Efficiency Report
Investing in energy efficiency to protect the future of community buildings.
Community buildings play a vital role in bringing people together, providing essential services and strengthening local communities. From community centres and village halls to sports clubs, shops and cafés, these spaces are at the heart of local life and provide important places for connection, wellbeing and collaboration.
Yet many community buildings are ageing, poorly maintained and increasingly expensive to run. Rising energy costs are placing additional pressure on charities and community organisations, many of which have limited capacity and rely heavily on volunteers. For organisations already facing financial pressures, poor energy efficiency can threaten their ability to keep buildings open and continue delivering vital services.
The VCSE Energy Efficiency Scheme demonstrated both the scale of demand for support and the impact that investment can have. The £25 million Government-funded programme supported organisations across England through independent energy assessments and capital grants for measures including solar panels, insulation, LED lighting and heating improvements. More than 1,100 organisations received advice and/or capital funding through the scheme.
However, the experience of delivering the scheme also highlighted the significant barriers organisations face. Building condition, limited capacity, difficulties finding suitable contractors and the complexity of energy efficiency projects can all prevent improvements from being made. Future support needs to recognise these challenges and provide organisations with the funding, advice and practical support needed to overcome them.
Published August 2026
Report: Through the Roof – The case for investing in the energy efficiency of community buildings
