Borough Council backs Energy for Erewash mission to cut people’s bills

Erewash Borough Council is backing a new mission to ramp up the use of renewable energy sources to cut bills for residents, community groups and businesses – as the Iran war plunges world oil and gas markets into turmoil.

The focus is on how people across the borough can take advantage of non-fossil fuel technology such as solar and electric battery storage to stem the threat of soaring prices.

Information on ways for members of the community to benefit from going green will be available from a group that is being launched by local people who were determined to take action.

They have formed a non-profit organisation called E4E – Energy for Erewash – which has won a £3,500 council grant to get up and running. Its aim as well as issuing guidance is to develop renewable energy projects to generate cheaper electricity for homes and businesses.

Plans include working with residents, local organisations and the council to install solar panels and batteries at community centres, social clubs, schools and places of worship.

Local people are being invited to two launch events to find out more – including getting the lowdown on subsidies and other help that is available to cut bills by using green energy. The first is in Ilkeston on Saturday 14th March at the Cantelupe Centre, which overlooks the Market Place. The advice hub will run from 10.30am to 12.30pm and includes refreshments.

A second event will take place at the Long Eaton Art Room in Lime Grove on Thursday 26th March from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

E4E is a “community benefit society” and is the latest of around 500 such initiatives in the UK.  The boom in them coincides with the Government allocating up to £1billion for what it is calling a “Local Power Plan”.

Tara Brassil, who is one of the local society’s directors, said of the meetings: “They are an opportunity for the community to share their views and help shape a more affordable and sustainable energy system for the area.”

Cllr Tim Scott, who represents Draycott and Risley, backed E4E’s application for council support. It came in the form of what is called a Member Grant – which organisations can apply for by getting an endorsement from an elected representative.

Funding for a fresh round of the grants – plus others that the council makes available for community organisations and initiatives – will be announced soon.

Erewash Borough Council Lead Member for Environment Cllr Mark Alfrey said: “The recent havoc in the Middle East demonstrates just how crucial it is to have reliable sources of cheap home-grown energy.

“The council has itself been moving swiftly to renewables. Anything that helps people across the borough to also cut their energy bills has got to be fantastic news.”

For more information about E4E email info @ energy4erewash.org.uk