Stage 1 of Pioneering Places Completed!
We have successfully completed the first stage of our Pioneering Places project: Breaking Barriers to Blaenau and Bethesda being Net Zero!
This project aims to develop and improve access to innovative business models that derisk the development of new local energy markets. In this first stage, we demonstrated the feasibility of creating financially viable renewable and low carbon heat networks through the utilisation of local energy markets, such as Energy Local. Our particular focus is supporting areas at risk of being “left behind” in innovation and we are keen to explore innovative means to help households in fuel poverty and hard-to-reach areas.
In doing this project, we hope to demonstrate the model in North Wales and show how it can be used to plan for a sustainable future in communities across the UK. With the successful completion of the first stage of the project, we are looking forward to start work on stage 2 and build on our collaborative partnerships with Partneriaeth OGwen, Cwmni Bro Ffestiniog, Gwynedd Council, Community Energy Wales and SPenergynetworks.
We are thrilled to be part of initiatives aimed at growing local energy markets, decarbonising electricity generation, and addressing fuel poverty.
Feature in Welsh Government Energy Service Annual Report!
The Bonwm hydro that supplies Energy Local Corwen has been featured
in the Welsh Government’s Energy Service Annual Report! You can take a look at their video here.
This scheme is run by a committee of volunteers who have worked hard to maximise benefits to its members. The generator and other directors agreed to keep the match tariff below the PPA, so locally produced energy is available to members in Corwen at just 10p/kWh.
This scheme has been so successful a second scheme is underway and hoping to supply power to at least 130 homes in Corwen.
Award for Edward Vaughan at the Royal Welsh Show!
This month we are celebrating a great achievement for Energy Local Club member, Edward Vaughan. He won the prestigious Sir Bryner Jones Award at the Royal Welsh Show this year. This award is made annually to a member of the farming industry who has reached the highest level of achievement in the sector – this year the focus was on a Net Zero champion. The judges loved his circular and community thinking – a great testament to community energy!
Northern Powergrid Community DSO Project
Northern Powergrid is launching a Community DSO Project to support the development of Smart Local Energy Systems that facilitate and incentivise decarbonisation. This will be relevant for groups across the North East, Yorkshire and north Lincolnshire and the aim is to enable communities to pursue their own decarbonisation agenda and have greater control over their own energy and assets. Energy Local is hoping to work with communities in the area and use this opportunity to expand and establish new Clubs!
Bath and West Community Energy Development
This month we travelled down to Bath to meet the lovely team at BWCE and train up a group of advisors to manage some potential future Clubs. BWCE have had great success over the years in installing renewable energy for their local community and supporting innovation projects. It was inspiring to hear their progress and look at future opportunities for Energy Local Clubs.
New Video Explainer of Energy Local
Have you ever wanted a simple way to explain Energy Local to friends or family?
Robbie has produced a fantastic new video explainer of who we are and how it all works. Take a look here!
Connect with Energy Local Clubs
If you're an Energy Local member you can join our members' Facebook Group, where you are welcome to share your experiences, connect with other members, and find answers to any questions you might have.
Also find us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, where we post regular updates about what we are up to.