Support for community energy groups launched

LOCAL communities are encouraged to find out how they can help make a difference to climate change and fuel poverty through community energy groups. Community energy is the delivery of community-led renewable energy, energy demand reduction and energy advice projects. Activities provided by community energy groups can include energy audits, providing energy saving services and the installation of solar panels on community buildings and members’ homes.

Essex County Council has commissioned experts Community Energy South to help deliver a wide range of support which will include information provision, an online masterclass, information resources and group support. The support will help groups to understand the technical, legal and funding issues within the community energy sector. Further in-depth group development and mentoring will help the formation of new community energy groups and help get projects started across Essex.

Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change Action, Councillor Simon Walsh, said: “Community energy groups bring a wide range of benefits including reducing energy costs, reducing the impact of climate change and helping to alleviate fuel poverty, as well as creating a sense of collective purpose for the group. This is an excellent opportunity to find out more and to get involved.”

The masterclass will take place 3 December and is open to any interested groups. It will include a step by step guide to setting up a community energy group and examples of inspiring projects that have taken place elsewhere. Speakers will include some of the leaders in the community energy sector. Places can be booked online.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/community-energy-masterclass-making-local-action-on-climate-change-happen-tickets-124683386365

This project is part of an overall strategy by Essex County Council to address the environment and climate change. Other initiatives include the formation of the Essex Climate Action Commission to make recommendations about how we can improve the environment and the economy of Essex. If you would like further information on how to get involved in community energy or climate action in your local area email [email protected]

This project is funded by LECSEA. The LECSEA (Local Energy Communities for the 2 Seas region) programme is a cross border project funded through the Interreg 2 Seas programme. Interreg 2 Seas 2014-2020 is a European Territorial Cooperation Programme covering England, France, the Netherlands and Belgium (Flanders). The Programme is part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. For more information on LECSEA visit https://www.interreg2seas.eu/en/LECSEA