OLDHAM COUNCIL has welcomed visitors from across Europe ahead of the start of a new project to help develop community energy schemes.
Representatives from as far and wide as Italy, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary and Germany all gathered for a meeting at the Civic Centre in March.
The meeting was the first step in a five-year project which will see public bodies from across Europe share expertise to help community energy projects get off the ground.
It will also compliment Generation Oldham, a local initiative which helps companies and community organisations to install energy generating equipment and efficiency measures, and the Greater Manchester Community Energy Innovation project on a regional level.
It is hoped the project, which is financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), will eventually help to develop new schemes and lower bills for local residents, businesses, schools and community groups who take part.
Councillor Abdul Jabbar, Deputy Leader of Oldham Council, said: “Oldham is fast becoming a leader in helping to support community energy schemes.
“Through the knowledge and expertise we’ve built up, we’ve been able to support schools, community groups and residents looking to set up and invest in schemes like the Saddleworth hydroelectric power scheme and we want that to continue.
“It was interesting to meet likeminded people from across Europe and leading them on this project will help us to stay at the forefront of this growing trend and get access to their support and expertise.
“We are always interested to hear from businesses, groups and households who want to set up or get involved in community energy schemes.
“I hope to see many more examples of good community energy schemes coming forward in the coming years in Oldham.”
The programme has been named COALESCCE (Community owned and led energy for security climate change and employment) and more information is available at http://www.interregeurope.eu/COALESCCE/.
As well as leading on the community energy project, Oldham is also taking part in another Europe wide scheme, with both projects running until 2022.
The second project, designed to offer additional support to start-up and small business, will see Oldham work with the Business Growth Hub public bodies in Spain, Poland, Malta, Finland, Slovakia and the Republic of Ireland and the Business Growth Hub.
Together, the project partners will share knowledge and opportunities which will help local businesses with advice on things like getting started and complying with regulations.
To contact Oldham Council’s dedicated business support team, email employability@oldham.gov.uk or call 0161 770 4674.
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