‘Portswood Community Energy’ kick off meeting at Sainsbury’s Community Room, Portswood, on 3 Nov and online on 4 Nov. Read more below!

Dear Portswood & Highfield Residents,

With energy prices surging and new government financial support to form community energy companies and low interest loans being launched, now is a perfect time for residents across Portswood and Highfield to come together to discuss the opportunities that this presents.

Community energy companies are a way for residents to develop and own their own energy generating assets and infrastructure in order to reduce energy bills and provide energy security. They can also help decarbonise communities to support meaningful action on climate change.

We are exploring opportunities to develop renewable energy and home retrofit projects across Portswood and Highfield, and will be applying for funds to design and deliver them. There are opportunities for residents to access loans and grants, to invest, for jobs, for volunteering, and for board member positions.

A small group of committed residents are running a community event next evening (Tuesday 3rd November) at Sainsburys Community Room to discuss the drivers and opportunities. The aim is to share the opportunities and invite all interested local people to be part of the process. We are actively looking for volunteers to help develop projects and to support future applications, and are seeking expressions of interest for Board members to govern a ‘Portswood Community Energy Company’.

The event will be repeated online on November 4th for those who can’t attend in person (please see attached for joining instructions) and a short survey will be available for this interested to stay in touch with developments, to share thoughts and needs but who can’t join at the events.

We look forward to meeting any interested people at either event next week or at future events.

Portswood Resident