Communities wanted with ‘energy’ for competition
Communities with ‘energy’ have the chance to win a package of professional assistance to help them save money and make best use of their renewable energy resources in a competition being launched this week in Exmoor National Park.
The competition is being organised by local community group Forum 21 with funding from the Exmoor National Park Sustainable Development Fund. The aim is to identify six communities within the National Park that can demonstrate a high level of commitment to the project and a need for the help that’s available. They will then get assistance through Forum 21’s ‘community energy team’ to help them put together a sustainable energy plan. The plan will identify opportunities for saving energy and producing renewable energy. A funding plan will also be drawn up and assistance in applying for funding will be provided.
Forum 21 co-ordinator, Lorna Scott, said: “This is a great opportunity for communities within the National Park to become less reliant on imported energy placing them in good stead to withstand fossil fuel price rises and fluctuations”; she continued, “and we have a great team in place which will help them to achieve that aim”.
Communities have until 20th February 2009 to submit their applications which will be judged by an independent assessment panel. The winning communities will receive help from the community energy team throughout the spring and summer of 2009 to help them to put together their plans.
The team consists of a project officer, Will Evans and a number of volunteers from Forum 21. They will be supported in their work by Exmoor National Park Authority.
Said Will Evans, “In the near future, it is possible that some communities in Exmoor will be generating all of their energy from renewable energy sources – we are looking forward to helping them to achieve this aim.”
Application forms for communities wishing to enter the competition are available from Forum 21’s website www.forum21.org.uk or by ringing 01643 709889.