New help for schools and hospitals with green energy grant applications
Posted by: electime 17th August 2026
A new online tool is helping schools, hospitals and community organisations uncover solar projects that stack up, identify viable opportunities for network connections and find the funding to make them happen.
Designed to take the guesswork out of solar planning, UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operators’ ‘Opportunity Finder’ tool provides simple, practical insights including estimated carbon savings and installation costs, helping users create stronger applications for non-domestic solar grants.
Opportunity Finder is a customer-led, data-driven approach to help organisations make the most of the new GB Energy £180 million of funding by identifying and progressing viable solar projects more quickly and confidently, helping customers connect low-carbon technologies to the electricity network.
The tool is currently being piloted with three NHS trusts, two community energy groups and Greater South East Net Zero Hub, all organisations that can benefit from planning low‑carbon projects with greater confidence through informed decisions.
UK Power Networks DSO will develop Opportunity Finder during the pilot phase, with plans to expand its functionality based on customers’ feedback. The initiative supports wider efforts to increase access to local clean energy and help more customers take practical steps towards greener energy.
Lynne McDonald, head of local net zero, at UK Power Networks DSO, said: “Opportunity Finder is about giving customers the clarity and confidence they need to move from ambition to action. We’ve listened to community groups, NHS trusts and partners who told us they face real challenges in identifying viable projects and securing funding.
“By bringing the right data together in one place, we’re making it easier for them to find opportunities, build strong business cases and unlock investment in local clean energy.”
Nicola Davidson, project manager at Community Energy Pathways said: “Being involved in developing the tool shows that the team understands our need for community energy groups to plan their projects well and are developing the ideal solution for them. We look forward to our groups using it to identify project sites, assess them with accuracy and present them through funding, consenting and permitting processes. The tool will save groups time, boost their confidence and help them secure investment.”
