Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has published a new practical guide to help communities, schools, public sector organisations and local authorities develop renewable energy projects that bring benefits directly to local people.
The Public Building Decarbonisation "How To" Guide has been developed through the Council's involvement in the Welsh Government-funded Whole Systems Research and Innovation for Decarbonisation (WSRID) Programme.
The guide is based on work carried out in Rhondda Cynon Taf to explore how renewable energy generated locally can be used locally, helping to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy security and keep more economic benefits within communities.
As part of the programme, the Council investigated how different renewable energy technologies could work together as a connected local energy system. This included exploring a proposed micro-hydropower scheme in Clydach Vale, alongside solar panels, battery storage, low-carbon heating and opportunities to share energy locally.
The findings from this work have now been brought together in a practical guide that can help organisations across Wales plan and deliver similar projects in their own communities.
The guide includes advice on:
- Identifying suitable public buildings for renewable energy projects
- Understanding local energy demand
- Finding opportunities for renewable energy generation
- Overcoming electricity grid challenges
- Reducing carbon emissions from heating
- Developing local energy systems and energy sharing arrangements
- Maximising the benefits renewable energy projects can bring to local communities
Councillor Ros Davis, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council's Cabinet Member for Resources, Customer and Energy said:
"We are committed to supporting Wales' journey towards a lower-carbon future while ensuring local communities benefit from the opportunities this creates.
"This new guide shares the lessons learned through our work in Rhondda Cynon Taf and provides practical support for organisations looking to develop renewable energy projects of their own.
"By generating and using more renewable energy locally, we can help reduce carbon emissions, strengthen energy resilience and create benefits that stay within our communities."
The guide has been designed to help organisations move from planning to delivery and support the development of a more sustainable and resilient local energy system across Wales.
Download the Public Building Decarbonisation "How To" Guide:
Find out more about the Welsh Government's Whole Systems Research and Innovation for Decarbonisation Programme.
Posted on 14/09/2026