Helping communities reduce their energy bills
Written by author on March 11, 2014
A series of drop in events are running in the region as part of the 100% RES (Renewable Energy Source) project. At each event, energy experts will give communities advice on saving on energy bills and reducing their carbon footprint.
The first event will take place in Crocketford Town Hall on the 22nd March between 10 am and 3pm. The event is open to everyone and highlights ways to insulate solid wall properties, outlines simple actions to reduce home energy bills and the advantages of joining an oil club.
The town hall in Crocketford has undergone work to save on energy and these measures will be highlighted in a display. There is also a chance for people to find out more about funding opportunities for communities.
Dumfries and Galloway is the only Scottish local authority taking part in the 100% RES project as there is a wealth of experience in community sustainable energy projects, but also because fuel poverty is a big issue in the region.
Our Council has signed up to the Covenant of Mayors which is to reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20% by 2020. Ten communities within our region including Crocketford have developed Sustainable Energy Action Plans designed to alleviate high energy costs. These community projects range from Micro hydro Schemes to property insulation.
Councillor Colin Smyth, Chair of the Council’s Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee said
“A staggering forty two per cent of our homes are in fuel poverty, 26% classed as ‘fuel poor’ and 16% ‘extremely fuel poor. A household is classed as fuel poor if they need to spend more than 10% of its income on fuel to maintain satisfactory heating. Protecting the most vulnerable is a key priority for the new council administration, so tackling fuel poverty is something the Council and partners are trying to address. These drop in events are an ideal way to combat the problem through expert information and advice.”
There will be other public events taking place over the next few months; Whithorn on the 29th March and Dalbeattie on 26th April. Auchencairn will also be holding an event but the date is to be announced.
