Energy scheme education for foreign guests

VISITORS from across Europe at Oldham's Civic Centre

VISITORS from across Europe were welcomed to Oldham's Civic Centre before a new project to help develop community energy schemes begins.

Representatives from Italy, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary and Germany joined Oldham Council representatives at a meeting in the Civic Centre last week.

It was the first step in a five year project which will see European public bodies work together to share expertise to help community energy projects get off the ground.

It will also complement Generation Oldham; a local initiative helping local firms and community organisations install energy generating equipment and energy efficiency measures in their buildings and the Greater Manchester Community Energy Innovation project which does so on a regional level. 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 like-minded 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 so, if you or someone you know, are interested in doing so, please get in touch and we will do our best to help and advise you.

"I hope to see many more examples of good community energy schemes coming forward in the coming years in Oldham."

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.

The programme has been named COALESCCE (Community owned and led energy for security climate change and employment) and more information is available interregeurope.eu/coalescce/.

Oldham is also making its mark by taking part in another Europe-wide scheme designed to offer additional support to start-up and small business

The project 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.