June 29, 2023
With rising energy costs and a desire for sustainable solutions, interest in community energy projects is increasing rapidly. Two great opportunities to build your knowledge are coming up soon: the SusSH Energy Focus Group Leaders’ Gathering, and the Community Energy Spring Gathering with Devon Community Energy Network (DCEN).
Our Group Leaders’ Gathering, at the Watermark, Ivybridge on the 8th March, will be a fantastic chance for learning about the issues and opportunities around community-owned renewable energy. All are welcome to join, regardless of your knowledge level or experience.
These events are always a wonderful way to meet other passionate people for informal discussion, and March’s gathering is set to be no exception. We’ll be thinking about the basics of ‘Infrastructure and Connectivity’ - including taking a look at some National Grid-supplied capacity maps and supported by Mike Hodges from Thurlestone and Joddy Chapman from South Brent Community Energy Society - and ‘How to work a business case’ with support from Louise Wainwright at Bigbury Net Zero.
For those of you who want to really get into the subject, DCEN’s Community Energy Spring Gathering, held at Dartington Hall on the 24th & 25th March, is sure to leave you inspired and informed.
The weekend will include walks, talks, fantastic food and collaborative discussion themed around community energy. Discussions will be supported by experts from a range of organisations, including National Grid, Devon Power Allotments and Energy Local.
DCEN says “The event is about supporting each other and building a community of practitioners who want to take practical action to reduce emissions and support their community.
“By sharing our experiences, learning from each other and building mutual trust and understanding we hope to gain valuable input and perspectives on the issues that matter to us. Due to the recent flourishing of new community groups, this year there will be specific sessions dedicated to them, alongside open-space discussions about contemporary topics that are chosen by all present at the beginning of the day.”