Boost for Local Green Energy

Local project to share in government renewable energy funding

Severn Wye Energy Agency (SWEA) will be managing a "Local Support Team for Community Renewable Energy" in Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and South Gloucestershire under a new Countryside Agency initiative launched in London today.

The Team is funded by the Countryside Agency's Community Renewables Initiative and will help local communities make the most of their renewable energy resources.

Graham Ayling (Renewable Energy Project Manager for SWEA) said: "Community Renewable Energy is all about helping local communities decide how their energy is produced and make a real difference for the environment. We have a wealth of renewable energy sources on our doorstep and this initiative will help local communities to have more say in how they are used - and reap some of the benefits."

The Team is one of 10 Local Support Teams established in different areas of England and will start work in May. Each Team involves a partnership of organisations formed to help localities develop their own ideas and renewable energy projects suited to the local area. These partnerships involve local councils, energy experts, government bodies, and other specialists. They will provide advice and training on all aspects of renewable energy, such as feasibility studies, funding, technology issues, planning, environmental assessment, and public participation. On a national level, training events and seminars will be available to all participating in the Initiative, and a web site will provide illustrated examples, a discussion board, and information guides.

Countryside Agency Funding will support the work of the Team which will work to bring new funding into the area for local renewable energy projects.

For further details contact:

Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Renewable Energy Partnership

Graham Ayling, Severn Wye Energy Agency

Unit 6/15 Brook Street Mitcheldean,

Glos, GL17 0SL Tel: 01594 545364

Email: [email protected]