Numerous communities up and down the land have developed what are known as Community Energy Groups.
The purpose is to engage with the community and generate funds via a share issue, to invest in renewable energy for the benefit of a local school/business/church…whatever….The return on investment is significantly greater than anything currently available on the High Street! I regret to say Newton Abbot has lagged behind on this front, and some of us want to put that right.
A number of people, of whom I am but one, are trying to do the same here in Newton Abbot. The support of such schemes is one of the recommendations the committee I have been Chairing at Devon County Council is making, and I hope Devon County will do just that. (Teignbridge as well I would like to think) Please ask for a copy of this report if keen to know more.
The benefits to the community are many, and include huge reductions in the energy bills of any given organisation (Plymouth Council has enabled 20 plus schools in the city to generate their own power in this way, in the last 6/9 months)a reduction in an areas carbon footprint, a positive educational experience for many and perhaps the winning argument for many an injection of additional cash into local pockets. What do I mean by the last point?
Last year in South Devon alone £400 million was taken out of local pockets and therefore the local economy by the utility companies and removed from South Devon for shareholders elsewhere in the world. How much better if at least some of that cash could be kept here in South Devon and thus boost the local economy?
Want to know more? A public meeting is being held at Old Forde House on Wednesday 12th November (6.30 for 7) If you would like an invitation, please let me know or visit Transition Newton Abbot’s web page.
I can be contacted on 01626 362070 or 0779224467 or gordon.hook@devon.gov.uk.
Please get in touch if at all interested, come along and perhaps even get involved.