POVERTY

Energy revolution's quiet benefits

Ollie Pendered explains how councils beyond the South East are taking notice of the Community Energy Pathways Programme’s approach to tackling soaring energy costs and accelerating the drive to net zero.

The cost of living crisis has been dominated by the rising price of energy, leaving many vulnerable people facing a stark choice between turning the heating on or putting food on the table. Unsurprisingly, this has left many with a feeling of desperation and helplessness – with bills rising sharply for many this winter.

However, there is light at the end of the tunnel. For almost a decade, a quiet energy revolution has been taking place in the South East of England, empowering local people to establish community energy groups. This movement is now gathering pace with the establishment of projects, such as community solar, eco lighting, sustainable heating for schools and electric vehicle (EV) car sharing clubs for communities.

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