Black Hill Wind Farm Community Fund

The Black Hill Wind Farm Community Fund Ltd is a charitable organisation funded by Renewable Energy Systems Ltd (RES), operators of the Blackhill Wind Farm in Berwickshire. The fund provides grants to community projects within the community council areas of Abbey St Bathans, Bonkyl and Preston; Cranshaws, Ellemford and Longformacus; Duns; Gavinton, Fogo and Polwarth. In exceptional circumstances, grants may be awarded to groups outside the catchment area if there is clear evidence of significant impact within the area. The fund supports a diverse range of community initiatives including sports projects that help local clubs grow and improve facilities, green projects focused on sustainability and environmental initiatives, and arts projects that celebrate culture and strengthen local identity. With an annual budget of approximately £35,000, the fund typically supports about 20 applications per year with grants ranging from £300 to £5,000, with an average award of around £1,500. The fund is managed by a board of directors representing each Community Council, one director from RES, and up to four independent directors. Applications are reviewed at regular board meetings, with the next deadline set for 31st January 2026 for the meeting on 11th February 2026. Core funding for ongoing salary costs is not usually supported, and applicants are encouraged to demonstrate they have explored other funding sources.