Four events were delivered in October to help communities understand and influence local planning decisions on renewable and low carbon developments in their areas.
The Centre for Sustainable Energy and Marches Energy Agency, on behalf of Climate East Midlands and as part of the Climate Change Skills Programme, took a rolling road show to Newark, Matlock, Corby and Leicester. Each full day was divided into two distinct phases focusing on the role of the local community in low carbon planning in the morning and more technical information about different technologies, consultation and funding in the afternoon. Guest speakers included Patrick Allcorn from DECC on Community Energy On-line and key representatives from community renewable projects ongoing in the four areas.
Attendees appreciated the opportunity to network with like minded community groups from their neighbourhoods, and felt the day improved their knowledge of renewable energy technologies and adaptation. Several groups were already looking at developing renewable energy projects and nearly all the remainder felt they were more likely to consider how their community could do likewise following the event.
The events were very positively received, with comments such as “many thanks for such a rich and enjoyable day” and “a good balance between listening and participation”, making the organisation worthwhile!
Slides from the four days are:
- Master slides – covering: community concerns, planning and low carbon issues; neighbourhood planning, introduction to resources available to communities; overview of renewable energy options; getting your community on board; funding and finance
- DECC Community Energy On-line – Patrick Allcorn
- Practical overview of climate change adaptation – UKCIP
- Tutbury Eco-power
- Village Power CiC
- Communities Cutting Carbon project
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