12 Net Zero Projects Selected for Borderlands Energy Investment Programme

The Borderlands Energy Investment Programme (BEIP) has completed its Call for Projects process, selecting 12 local initiatives to accelerate the region's transition to net zero.

The programme aims to help reduce carbon emissions, strengthen energy resilience, and create new green jobs and skills across South Scotland and the North of England.

​​Following an initial assessment, 12 projects have now been shortlisted for this funding. The selected initiatives will be refined over the next 12-18 months and, if approved, delivered across the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal's lifetime to drive sustainable regional growth.

Building on the regions’ role in the UK’s energy sector, the programme prioritises initiatives that enhance community assets, public buildings, and housing through practical technologies – including ground source heat pumps, solar carports, and battery systems for reliable, lower-cost operations. Other projects selected include flexible energy storage, hydrogen production, and modular low-carbon systems, tailored to rural challenges such as fuel poverty and grid constraints, to deliver resilient, affordable power.

Rick O'Farrell, Borderlands Inclusive Growth Director, said:

“Through the Borderlands Energy Investment Programme, we’re supporting projects that will deliver secure, affordable, and sustainable energy for residents and businesses.

“The selected projects will help reduce carbon emissions, boost local economies, and build the skills needed for the future. By developing scalable solutions tailored to the unique needs of rural areas, we're creating lasting benefits for the communities across the region.”

Together, the selected projects will position the Borderlands as a national leader in supporting net zero solutions that will deliver replicable models. BEIP will also contribute to building a more diverse and resilient regional economy alongside other initiatives supporting business, innovation, and skills.

More information about the projects can be found on the Energy Investment Programme page