Energy Local, a community-driven initiative aimed at reducing electricity costs and promoting renewable energy, has gained traction across Great Britain since its establishment by Dr. Mary Gillie in 2016. It all began with the inspiration of residents in Ashton Hayes, Cheshire. They had a dream of turning their small village into the first carbon-neutral community in North America. This vision has evolved into a dynamic network of 36 energy clubs. They run the length of England, from Scotland to Devon and Dorset, helping everyday people take advantage of local renewable energy resources and significantly reduce their electricity costs.
Dr. Gillie developed Energy Local after recognizing the frustrations faced by Ashton Hayes residents who wanted a sustainable energy solution. She stressed that communities need to be empowered to produce and consume their own renewable energy. The program encourages participants to optimize their energy consumption by scheduling high-energy tasks, such as running washing machines, during peak clean power generation periods.
Energy Local has had remarkable success in Brixton, south London. Working alongside local energy companies to leverage the opportunities presented by a new solar project on the roof of Roupell Park – a social housing block decked out with photovoltaic panels installed as part of a 2013 community investment programme delivered by Repowering London. Special tariff arrangements Energy Local has been actively negotiating special tariff arrangements. In doing so, it has developed a “hyper-local” market that rejoices in the distinctive local renewable energy produced there.
Households linked to Energy Local will be able to look forward to different kinds of savings on their future electricity bills. While specific estimates vary, estimates have shown that participants can save 10%-30% based on how they use their devices. Recently, as Richard Toft, another member of the initiative explained,
“We’re all saving. Depending on your personal habits, people save a different proportion – anywhere between a 10% and 25% reduction on your bill.” – Richard Toft
The forecast provided by Energy Local helps participants understand how much energy they can expect from local renewable sources each day. This level of transparency enables households to better understand their energy habits and usage patterns, allowing them to save even more.
The Bridport energy club in Dorset, pictured above, is the latest to join this successful Energy Local expansion. The club was founded in 2021 after local resident Peter Bailey installed a vertical wind turbine. Today, close to 60 passionate members are ready to capitalize on the excitement created by their community’s talent.
Afsheen Kabir Rashid, who took part in the Roupell Park trial. She highlighted what a difference these programs have already made in reducing energy bills for participants. She remarked,
“We still have huge fuel poverty in the UK. People are scared about the bills that arrive. People are disconnected from where the energy is coming from. The benefits of the extractive fossil fuel economy do not stay local in people’s pockets. But through community energy, we can bring people closer, make it visible.” – Afsheen Kabir Rashid
The success of Energy Local reflects a growing movement towards localized energy solutions that empower communities and reduce reliance on traditional energy suppliers. Dr Gillie warns that community energy initiatives can achieve substantial reductions in expenditures and environmental impacts. These schemes shouldn’t be seen as a substitute for the national grid.
“We need a robust overarching system to ensure the power keeps flowing,” – Dr. Mary Gillie.
As she elaborated, it’s local efforts that are critical. They can’t do it in the face of infrastructure costs that need a national backstop.
Even with all of these challenges, Energy Local is still growing its impact and network. Dr. Gillie highlighted that meaningful community engagement is essential for these initiatives to succeed. She encouraged others to become active members of local energy clubs and participate.
“We have clubs developing in many areas. Please let us know you are interested,” – Energy Local.
The model established by Energy Local demonstrates the potential for communities to take control of their energy consumption and finances while fostering sustainability. As more individuals become aware of their energy sources and costs, initiatives like this may play a pivotal role in reshaping how communities interact with energy systems.