Charsfield has a vision for a sustainable future.
Charsfield Parish Council recently expressed interest in applying for funding from the Greater South East Net Zero Hub to support the development of a community energy project. Stage 1 funding aims to provide access to £40,000 for a feasibility study to assess the viability of setting up a renewable energy project in and around the village. A small group has been set up to steer us through that process. *
Charsfield Community Energy hosted an informal meeting at the village hall on 8 March 2024 to introduce the concept of community energy to the local residents, as well as visitors from surrounding villages, farms and businesses. Approximately 60 people attended the presentation and actively participated in a discussion about the potential project.
The overwhelming majority of attendees showed their support for moving forward with the funding application, which could progress to Stage 2 with further funding of £100,000 to implement the necessary mechanisms for the renewable energy project.
The enthusiasm for community energy was evident not only among the local residents but also from five East Suffolk Councillors who attended the meeting to show their support. Councillor Tom Daly, the portfolio holder for Climate and Energy, assured us that East Suffolk Council fully supports the initiative and is committed to assisting in any way possible.
In addition to local support, representatives from Debenham and Rendlesham villages also attended the meeting, showing interest in setting up similar energy projects in their own communities. Rendlesham and Orford councillor, Tim Wilson, highlighted the potential benefits for his community which is heavily reliant on electricity and oil.
Charsfield Community Energy aims to explore possibilities such as solar and wind generation, local grid scale battery storage, widespread heat pump installations, and the establishment of local car clubs with electric cars and charging stations. These innovative ideas indicate a greener and cost saving future for all residents as well as regular dividends for the village.
Join us as we embark on this exciting journey together, we can create a thriving community powered by renewable energy and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship. Stay tuned for updates on our progress and ways to get involved in shaping a cleaner, greener future for all.
If you are interested in the project sign up in the form here and we’ll add you to the secure mailing list, we won’t bombard you with mail and you can opt out at any time.
*Steering group currently comprises: Steve Aylward, Peter Clitheroe, John Collins and Martin Lyne.
Please click on the picture below to download the first information sheet about the Charsfield project.
If you would like to get involved please let us know at CharsfieldEnergy@gmail.com