Norfolk Net Zero Communities: Insights from Across the County

The Norfolk Net Zero Communities project set out to understand the real-world barriers residents face in making their homes more energy efficient and increasing the use of renewable heat and power. Led by Great Yarmouth Borough Council and supported by the Norfolk Climate Change Partnership, the project engaged communities across the county to gather local perspectives and lived experiences.

What we found was clear: while there is strong interest in low-carbon living, many residents face challenges such as limited access to trusted advice, upfront costs, and uncertainty about where to start. These insights are now helping shape future support and investment, ensuring that Norfolk’s journey to net zero is informed by the voices of its communities.

About Norfolk Net Zero Communities

In 2023, the Norfolk Climate Change Partnership secured £300K from Innovate UK to establish seven Net Zero Communities across Norfolk, with Great Yarmouth Borough Council as the accountable body.

Running from July 2023 to July 2025, the two-year initiative marked the Partnership’s first collaborative project.

Funding was provided through the national Net Zero Living programme, Fast Followers, which focused on innovation and system change in place-based approaches to reducing emissions.

The project aimed to make it easier for residents to:

  • Improve energy efficiency in their homes
  • Adopt greener modes of transport
  • Generate and access renewable heat and power

The pilot locations for the project were chosen to reflect a cross-section of Norfolk. The selection process involved the seven District Councils, local councillors, and collaboration with local communities.

Pilot Communities:

  • Marshland St James (Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk)
  • Swaffham (Breckland Council)
  • Eaton (Norwich City Council)
  • Loddon & Chedgrave (South Norfolk Council)
  • Brundall Ward (Broadland Council)
  • Ormesby Ward (Great Yarmouth Borough Council)
  • Stalham (North Norfolk District Council)

The map of our communities was commissioned from Norfolk artist Madeleine Smith.

This is a Norfolk Climate Change Partnership Project, with accountability and reporting to the Senior Officers and Portfolio Holders groups that meet regularly. There is a dedicated Steering Group and Advisory Group for the project, bringing together key representation and expertise to ensure the project is a success and well aligned to local and national activity and best practice.

Latest news and upcoming events

Press releases

Events

  • 13 June 2025 – Norfolk NetZero Communities Conference

  • 19 March 2025 – An introduction to energy efficient traditionally built homes

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  • 16 July 2024 – Energy & Climate drop-in session

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  • 21 May 2024 – Norfolk NetZero Communities project

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  • 12 February 2024 – Ready to go for Net Zero

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Reports and
videos

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