The Council provides free support to communities who want to go green. See what help is available below and click on the headings to find out more:
Local Energy Champions Scheme
A package of support, training and equipment available to community groups in Bath and North East Somerset working on energy saving or carbon reduction projects. For more details contact the Sustainability Team. Email: Sustainability@bathnes.gov.uk. Tel: 01225 477528.
Bath Homes fit for the future
Visit the Bath Homes fit for the future website to find out about this project to enthuse and inform the community about:
- Making homes warmer and cheaper to heat
- Retrofit of traditional and listed homes
- Renewable energy generation
- Low energy and sustainable design
The project will feature an Open Homes weekend on the 17th and 18th March to showcase inspiring examples of energy saving homes, and a series of associated events, activities, and workshops, all taking place in March and April 2012. This is a community project supported by Transition Bath, Bath Preservation Trust, and Bath and North East Somerset Council.
Environmental Sustainability Network
This online forum is open to anyone in Bath and North East Somerset who is interested in environmental sustainability issues in the distict. Join the Network and become a member to be able to add content or just to be kept informed of the latest news and updates. Share ideas, news, events, and photos, and discuss topics related to environmental sustainability in our community.
Bath & West Community Energy (BWCE)
A community enterprise, supported by Bath & North East Somerset Council. BWCE are investing in renewable technology projects across the district, and are looking for locations for community scale solar, wind and hydro installations. There has been a community share offer and the profits will be reinvested locally. Several schools within Bath and North East Somerset have had solar p.v. panels installed as part of this community scheme.
Regen South West
A leading centre of sustainable energy expertise and pioneering project delivery. Regen SW is working to enable business, local authorities, community groups and other organisations to deliver renewable energy and energy efficiency and build a prosperous low-carbon economy in the south west of England.
Community Energy Online
The Government website for community groups who want develop a community energy scheme.
PlanLoCal
PlanLoCal is a suite of resources including films, a resource pack and a website which aims to support communities and groups that are planning for low carbon living.
Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE)
CSE community support can provide basic advice for community groups on renewable technology, energy efficiency and funding. They offer free telephone and email advice, technical and on-site support, training and workshop delivery.
Develop Enhancing Community Support
Commissioned by Bath & North East Somerset Council to provide free support services to voluntary organisations and community groups, including funding advice, information services and networking opportunities e.g. the community buildings forum, legal advice, and signposting.
Lock-In Energy
A not-for-profit local company that will do energy audits of community buildings; fees apply.
Carbon Trust
Register on their website to have access to their online manuals and advice, especially useful for community buildings.
Transition Towns movement
The Council has made a commitment to support groups in Bath and North East Somerset who are part of the Transition Network. Transition Groups bring together committed and motivated volunteers within the community, with the aim of creating community initiatives that build a sustainable future in the face of shrinking natural resources (peak oil) and increasing fuel and food costs. Transition Groups support moving to a low carbon, local economy and building positive, self reliant communities. Find a Transition Group near you.
Transition Bath
Greener Events Checklist
Guidance to reduce the environmental impact of your community event, addressing issues such as choosing a venue, energy use, waste and catering.
Community groups wanting help to access local resources and support for development of community energy efficiency and renewable energy projects should contact the Sustainability team. Email: Sustainability@bathnes.gov.uk. Tel: 01225 477528
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