Last week CAN and Northumberland Community Energy Ltd (NCEL) hosted the first of our Community Energy Roadshows at the beautiful Newton and Bywell Community Hall.
We were joined by 20 representatives from community halls across the area for two relaxed and informative sessions, complete with tea, cake, and lots of great conversations. The Roadshows are all about supporting communities to save energy, cut carbon emissions, and stay safe, with information on the Priority Services Register and carbon monoxide awareness.
Attendees explored services from CAN’s Community Building Energy project and CAIRN (Climate Action in Rural North East), received tips on home energy efficiency, renewables, and even how to make the most of a slow cooker! Tours of the Hall’s solar PV and battery installation offered hands-on insight into local energy solutions.
Highlights included:
- In-depth chats with Fiona from NCEL about community installations
- Advice and follow-ups from Jake, our VCMA-funded Community Buildings Officer
- One-to-one sessions with CAIRN officers, covering everything from solar farms to home insulation
- Retrofit guidance from Leanne, our LEAD Project Officer
- Lucky prize draws including free slow cookers
We also gathered some brilliant ideas on everyday energy-saving actions using our ‘Cairn’ feedback station. One participant summed it up perfectly: “Invaluable time spent networking between other communities.”
A huge thank you to everyone who attended, the Trustees at Newton and Bywell for hosting, and to our funders Northern Gas Networks and the VCMA project for making these events possible.
Coming up: More Community Energy Roadshows in North Northumberland this autumn – stay tuned!
