Category: Community Energy

New free guide will help Stoke Climsland residents cut energy bills and create healthier homes

New free guide will help Stoke Climsland residents cut energy bills and create healthier homes

By Rhianna Goodyear

We’re delighted to announce the release of a new Retrofit Guide, intended to help residents make home improvements for a healthier and more energy efficient living environment.

The Retrofit Guide was developed through a collaboration with 13 organisations and over 50 supporters and community members, including Tamar Energy Community, Community Energy Plus, and Cornwall Council (Historic Environment).

The free retrofit guide contains practical suggestions covering 6 key considerations: maintenance, insulation, ventilation, heating, cooling, and renewable and smart technologies. This includes dealing with damp and sustainable practices. The guide demonstrates how small changes can help ordinary people save money on energy bills, create a comfortable and healthy home, reduce environmental impact and improve resilience.

Covering all types of property, the guide includes common concerns around retrofitting older and historic properties, providing advice that is sensitive to the unique character of local buildings. It also busts some jargon and provides checklists to help residents plan and progress their retrofit journey. By covering both quick wins and long-term investments, the guide aims to be accessible and useful for all, regardless of property type or budget.

Contents of the Guide

  • Low and no-cost improvements
  • Insulation and ventilation improvements and how they interact
  • Considerations for heating and cooling
  • Renewable and smart technologies
  • Details on government grants and financial incentives
  • How to make a plan and stay safe
  • An essential reading list and links to over 50 references

Accessing the Guide

The Retrofit Guide is available for free download from the Stoke Climsland Parish Council website or you can view/download the guide here. Printed copies are also available.

Community Energy and Great British Energy: Policy Commitments and Next Steps

By Rhianna Goodyear

On the 16th of September, the UK Government published its Statement of Strategic Priorities for Great British Energy (GBE), setting out the role of the new publicly owned energy company in delivering the Local Power Plan. This marks a significant moment for community energy, which is now positioned as a central part of the UK’s clean energy future.

GBE is tasked with working closely with local groups and councils to grow community energy across the country.

Key Commitments Include:

  • Partnering with community energy groups to develop new clean power projects
  • Launching a support service to guide planning and delivery
  • Providing grants, loans and joint ventures to kickstart local projects
  • Promoting shared ownership so communities benefit directly
  • Collaborating with devolved governments such as Ynni Cymru in Wales and CARES in Scotland

The message is clear: communities should share in the benefits of clean power, including lower energy bills, local jobs and stronger energy security.

GBE will work alongside the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to deliver the Local Power Plan, which pledges up to £1 billion a year in support. This includes £400 million in low-interest loans for community-led projects and £600 million in grants to local authorities. The Labour Government’s manifesto promised to invite communities to come forward with their own energy projects and to work with local leaders and devolved governments to ensure that local people benefit directly from energy production.

By 2030, the Local Power Plan aims to deliver up to 8GW of new community-owned renewable energy, enough to power over 4 million homes. It also aims to support 20,000 new projects, create 1 million new energy owners and generate real economic, social and environmental benefits for communities across the UK.

GBE’s role will be to unlock the potential of the local and community energy pipeline, which has faced barriers including cost, capacity and capability constraints. In doing so, it will help build a more decentralised and resilient energy system, contributing to the UK’s energy security and net zero goals.

To support this, GBE is expected to:

  • Establish a specialist advisory service to provide technical, project planning and commercial support at all stages of development
  • Offer a cohesive package of financial support, including grants and loans for early-stage projects, joint ventures and equity partnerships
  • Promote shared ownership in existing and new renewable generation
  • Design its activities to complement existing schemes and work closely with devolved governments on matters of devolved competence

Next Steps

While the exact details of how these plans will support community energy are not yet clear, further information is anticipated soon. In the meantime, communities are encouraged to be having conversations about the potential for community-owned energy projects in their areas.

If you would like to have a chat about how your community can get involved or to find out more, please get in touch.

You can read more here

Community Energy State of the Sector 2025

Community Energy State of the Sector 2025

By Rhianna Goodyear

Community Energy England (CEE) has published its 2025 State of the Sector report, the most comprehensive review of community energy activity across the UK. Developed in partnership with Community Energy Wales and Community Energy Scotland, the report provides essential insights into the scale, impact and future potential of the sector.

Why It Matters

The report offers robust evidence to support policy development, investment and collaboration. It helps community energy organisations, local authorities and national stakeholders understand the sector’s contribution to climate action, energy resilience and social equity.

The 2025 edition draws on data submitted by over 400 community energy groups, building a clear picture of the sector’s achievements and challenges. It highlights the growing role of local energy initiatives in delivering clean power, reducing fuel poverty and strengthening communities.

Key facts and figures

  • Total community energy capacity: 349 MW across the UK, with 92% from solar PV
  • Carbon savings: Estimated 133,000 tonnes of CO₂ avoided in 2024
  • Community benefit funds: £3.6 million distributed in 2024
  • Volunteer engagement: Over 3,000 volunteers involved in community energy projects
  • Energy efficiency and retrofit: 60 organisations active in retrofit and advice services
  • Education and outreach: 100+ groups delivering energy education and awareness programmes

Recommendations from the report

To unlock the full potential of community energy, CEE calls for:

  • Supportive policy frameworks: Including a national Community Energy Strategy and local authority mandates to collaborate with community groups
  • Access to the grid: Reforming grid connection processes and prioritising community-led projects
  • Long-term funding: Establishing stable, multi-year funding for development and innovation
  • Fair market access: Enabling community energy to participate in energy markets and flexibility services
  • Data transparency: Improving access to energy data to support planning and delivery

Ongoing Data Collection

CEE’s data portal remains open, allowing organisations to update or add new projects as they become active. This ensures the sector’s story continues to evolve and reflect real-time developments. You can access the data portal and find registration details here.

National Community Energy Map

All submitted data feeds into the National Community Energy Map, a powerful tool for visualising the reach and diversity of community energy across the UK. Get on the map here.

Download the full 2025 State of the Sector report here

For more information and to contribute data, visit the Community Energy England website.

Bere Peninsula Heat Pumps: Fact or Fiction and Thermal Imaging Camera Uses

Bere Peninsula Heat Pumps: Fact or Fiction and Thermal Imaging Camera Uses

By Rhianna Goodyear

Join us at Bere Alston Parish Hall on Saturday 13th September from 10:30 am for a morning of conversation about home energy efficiency and what we’ve learned from our thermal imaging camera scheme.

We will be sharing practical advice on how heat pumps work, what makes them efficient, and how to avoid poor installations. You will also hear from Dartmoor Energy and have the chance to explore how heat pumps are performing in real homes, including a review of a local installation.

If you took part in our thermal imaging camera scheme, we would welcome your reflections and the opportunity to discuss what you discovered and any actions you have taken since. We will be sharing community findings and exploring next steps. If you are interested in using the thermal imaging camera this coming season, you can request access at the event or by contacting us directly.

Whether you are looking to reduce energy costs, improve comfort at home, or better understand your options, this event offers a space to ask questions, exchange ideas, and connect with others working towards a cosy, efficient and future-ready Bere Peninsula.

Interested in attending? No need to book—just come along on the day. Free entry and All welcome.

If you’re interested in getting involved and are unable to come along on Saturday 13th September, please get in touch with us via email at hello@tamarenergycommunity.com or give us a call on 0800 233 5414 referencing ‘Bere Peninsula Energy Advice’.

Or sign up to our newsletter here for updates on future events, retrofit advice, and community energy news.

Pete’s Retrofit Journey

Pete’s Retrofit Journey

By Rhianna Goodyear
This video was filmed as part of the Local Energy Advice Demonstrator (LEAD) project. Led by PEC as part of a consortium of community energy organisations across Devon and Cornwall. This project supported local households to improve the comfort of their homes and save on energy bills by increasing energy efficiency.

Pete had purchased a 1970s bungalow about 5 years ago that had seen better days. The property was cold, and its outdated gas boiler was both noisy and inefficient. With a growing need for more space and a strong family awareness of environmental issues, Pete set out to upgrade the home. But he quickly realised that navigating retrofit options was anything but straightforward.

Finding Trusted Advice

Conflicting opinions online and sales-driven pitches from commercial installers left Pete confused. He wasn’t looking for just another quote; he needed the full picture. That’s when he spotted an advert for a local talk hosted by, South Dartmoor Community Energy (SDCE) with whom we work closely and decided to attend.

Pete realised he didn’t have to figure it all out alone. He received a free and impartial retrofit advice visit from one of SDCE’s home energy advisors. They provided Pete with expert guidance on how to improve his home’s energy efficiency. Their advice helped clarify the retrofit process and provided both reassurance and practical direction.

A Bespoke Plan

SDCE referred Pete to Dartmoor Energy, a trusted retrofit specialist we work closely alongside. Using the property’s architectural plans, they carried out full room-by-room heat loss calculations and designed a bespoke whole-house plan for the property.

This included an air-source heat pump system linking in with underfloor heating, good levels of insulation throughout the property and solar roof tiles, carefully planned around the larger dormer extension to maximise available space.

Home Comfort

The result was a whole house retrofit built with precision. Pete now enjoys reliable warm indoor temperatures, lower running costs, and reduced CO₂ emissions. Even in winter, the home generates enough solar energy to power the system, eliminating the need to buy fossil fuels. Beyond improving day-to-day comfort, the transformation has inspired Pete’s friends to begin exploring their own retrofit journeys.

Pete’s Advice

“Get the right advice from the right people. By that, I mean community energy organisations like South Dartmoor Community Energy, people who aren’t trying to sell you something. Then go out and find what you need to deliver that system.”

Ready to Start Your Retrofit Journey?

If you’re thinking about improving your home’s energy efficiency or just need some guidance along the way, we’re here to help. Explore Retrofit Made Easy to see how we can support you from start to finish.

Want to see what’s possible? Discover a TEC client’s inspiring retrofit journey here and learn how expert advice and support made all the difference.

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Community Energy Fortnight

Community Energy Fortnight

By Rhianna Goodyear

From 1st to 14th July, we’re celebrating Community Energy Fortnight. A UK-wide campaign that shines a light on the power of local energy action, supported by Community Energy England.

This year’s theme, Investing in Community Energy, calls for long-term support for local projects that reduce energy bills, cut emissions, and help communities thrive.

Here in West Devon and the Tamar Valley, we’re proud to be part of this national movement. From thermal imaging and retrofit advice to our Community Rooftop Solar which generates clean, local energy for the benefit of the community, we’re showing how practical investment of time, funding and collaboration leads to real, lasting change.

Here’s what we’ve got planned;

  • 🟢 Library Display – Where: Tavistock Library When: Now until Sunday 14 July What: Discover tips for saving energy, explore retrofit guidance and learn how you can get involved.
  • ☕ TASS Café Drop-in – Where: A East End Stores, Pannier Market, East Tavistock, PL19 0AL When: Thursday 11 July, 10:00 to 12:00 What: Have a relaxed chat with one of our Home Energy Advisors about practical ways to improve home energy efficiency.
  • 💚Community Links Mental Health Monday – Where: Church Hall, Okehampton, EX20 1AA When: Sunday 14 July, 10:00 to 13:00 What: We will be bringing resources and friendly energy advice to this community event.

Whether you’re just getting started or ready to dive in, we’d love to see you during the Community Energy Fortnight.

For more information or to find out how you can get involved wherever you live (in England), visit Community Energy England.

To stay up to date with what we’re doing throughout the fortnight, follow TEC on Facebook where we’ll be sharing energy-saving tips and practical advice.

Sheepstor Community Energy: Thermal Imaging Camera Insights and Next Steps for the Community 

By Kate Royston

Join us at Sheepstor Village Hall on 19th June at 19:30 for an evening of reflection and discussion on the Thermal Imaging Camera Scheme. We will share findings and explore next steps. We will also be exploring opportunities for a community-driven approach to energy in Sheepstor. 

Discover insights from the scheme, including how householders participated and what was learned.  

We will also discuss practical steps the village can take to improve home and community energy efficiency while reducing costs. 

There will also be an opportunity to request use of the thermal imaging camera next season. 

Enjoy refreshments and a chance to connect with others in the community before diving into the evening’s discussions. Everyone is welcome. Bring your questions, experiences, and ideas as we work towards a cosy, efficient, and future-ready Sheepstor. 

What is Community Energy? 

Community energy is a way for local people to take control of their energy use and supply by generating, sharing, and managing renewable energy and energy use within their area. It helps reduce reliance on large utility companies, can keep energy costs lower and retain more money within the local economy, and supports sustainability. 

How does it work?  

Local energy clubs take this idea further by allowing householders to buy and sell excess energy within their community at a fairer rate. Instead of surplus energy going back to the grid, it stays local, benefiting members with lower costs and encouraging renewable energy use. These clubs create a more resilient and affordable energy system while keeping profits within the community. 

Here’s an example of a local energy club which has recently (Tuesday 3rd June 25) been on the BBC One Show: https://tresoc.co.uk/project/energy-local-totnes/ 

If you’re interested in getting involved and are unable to join us on Th. June 19th please get in touch with us by email at hello@tamarenergycommunity.com or give us a call on 0800 233 5414 referencing ‘Sheepstor Community Energy’ 

No Mow May

No Mow May

By Rhianna Goodyear

What is No Mow May?

Plantlife, the wild plant conservation charity, started the No Mow May campaign in 2019 to encourage garden owners to put their mower away during May and let wildflowers grow and support biodiversity.

Why do we need No Mow May?

The UK has lost 97% of its wildflower meadows since the 1930s, removing a vital food source for pollinators like bees and butterflies. A healthy lawn with longer grass and wildflowers can help reduce pollution, support wildlife, and can even lock away carbon underground. There are more than 20 million gardens in the UK, so even the smallest grassy patches can add up and deliver enormous gains for nature, people and the climate.

Allowing grass to grow longer and encouraging wildflowers to flourish can significantly boost biodiversity. Pollinating insects such as hoverflies, bees, and butterflies benefit from the nectar-rich plants, while birds and small mammals rely on them for food and shelter. No Mow May participants have observed nearly 100 species of pollinators thriving in their lawns, proving that small changes in gardening habits can have a meaningful impact on local ecosystems.

How to get involved?

Click here to join the movement and you’ll receive tips, guides and badges while helping Plantlife track how many people and lawns are taking part in No Mow May. 
Visit their website to download free posters, colouring sheets, and lawn signs, and share your journey using #NoMowMay on social media.

Naturally Healthy May

Naturally Healthy May

By Rhianna Goodyear

Celebrate Naturally Healthy May

May is the perfect time to embrace the outdoors, enjoy the fresh air, and experience the benefits of connecting with nature.

Led by Active Devon and Devon County Council on behalf of the Devon Local Nature Partnership, Naturally Healthy May is all about encouraging people to get active outside and improve their health and wellbeing through nature.

Time spent outdoors can reduce stress, enhance mood, and promote physical health. As we step into spring, it’s the perfect time to embrace the outdoors. Whether you’re walking in your local park, cycling through the countryside, gardening, or simply listening to birdsong in the early morning, there are countless ways to connect with nature and experience its positive effects.

Time spent outdoors can reduce stress, enhance mood, and promote physical health. As we step into spring, it’s the perfect time to embrace the outdoors. Whether you’re walking in your local park, cycling through the countryside, gardening, or simply listening to birdsong in the early morning, there are countless ways to connect with nature and experience its positive effects.

Find out more!

For inspiration and ideas on how to get started with Naturally Healthy May:

Let’s make the most of this season by stepping outside and embracing the naturally healthy way!

Getting Ready for the Radio Teleswitch Service Switch Over

Getting Ready for the Radio Teleswitch Service Switch Over

By Rhianna Goodyear

The technology that switches some older meters from peak to off-peak price is coming to an end soon. After the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) or Dynamically Teleswitched (DTS) ends, your meter’s timings might not work as expected and your heating and hot water supply could be affected. 

On 30th of June 2025, the RTS and DTS service will come to an end. These changes are industry-wide and will affect both domestic and business customers. This is because the radio frequency these meters use to switch between peak and off-peak rates is being switched off.

Your supplier should contact you to arrange an upgrade to a smart meter before this deadline. You won’t have to pay for the replacement meter.

Find out if you have an RTS meter

You may have an RTS/DTS meter if:

  • Your home has a separate switch box near your meter with a Radio Teleswitch label on it
  • Your home is heated using electricity or storage heaters
  • There is no gas supply to your area, including households in rural areas and high-rise flats
  • You get cheaper energy at different times of day, for example, you might be on an Economy 7, Economy 10, or Total Heat Total Control tariff

Get in touch with your electricity supplier if you’re still not sure which meter is in your home.

Explore These Helpful Resources:

If you’re still unsure or need tailored advice, please feel free to contact us for support.

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