Category: Events

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.

Sampford Courtenay Grand Summer Fete: Join Us For Energy & Retrofit advice

By Rhianna Goodyear

Join us at Sampford Courtenay’s Grand Summer Fete on 29 June from 14:30 for an afternoon of conversation about practical ways to improve home energy efficiency and reduce costs. 

We will be on hand to share advice on retrofit measures and energy-saving strategies to help households stay cosy, efficient, and future-ready. 

If you were involved in our thermal imaging camera scheme, we would love to hear about your experience and explore how we can support you with the next steps. If you are interested in using the thermal imaging camera next season, you will have the chance to request access. 

Alongside our stall, enjoy all the fantastic offerings at the fete, including Devon Cream Teas, a Bar, Raffle, Ice Creams, a Cake Stall, Family Games, a Craft Stall, a Teddy Hunt, Tombola, Wellie Throwing, and much more! 

Come for the festivities, stay for the conversation, and bring your questions, experiences, and ideas as we work towards a cosy, efficient, and future-ready Sampford Courtenay. 

Find all the details for the fete on the Sampford Courtenay Village Hall website or check out their Facebook Page.

If you’re interested in getting involved and are unable to come along on Sun. June 29th please get in touch with us by email at hello@tamarenergycommunity.com or give us a call on 0800 233 5414 referencing ‘Sampford Courtenay EnergyAdvice’  

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!

Stoke Climsland Carbon Zero Homes

Cosy Nights

Over 40 people met at the Old School on 6th February to discuss improving domestic heating efficiency, regardless of boiler type, and the ‘truth and myth’ about heat-pumps. This meeting was arranged in response to interest on this topic from across the Parish, becoming a legacy action from the Carbon Zero Homes Project which was led by the Parish Council, and which was funded by a grant from the Community Levelling Up Programme.

The first speaker was James Fortune from local renewable energy & retrofit specialists, Dartmoor Energy. To everyone’s surprise, James explained that the first heat-pump technology was invented in 1834 in the form of a refrigerator compressor and the first UK installation of a heat generating system was as far back as 1945.
James went on to explain the efficiency advantages and science behind heat-pumps and the different forms they take. James concluded with tips on achieving a good installation and how to use it effectively. 

You can find James’ presentation here

Andy Nevill followed with a specific case study of his own installation – an air-source heat-pump installed 2 years ago into a 19th century miner’s cottage. The biggest challenge was fitting under-floor-heating, but heat pump systems can operate in radiator only dwellings. Motivations were to achieve a healthy living environment, to save money and to reduce household emissions. They have measured a 90% reduction in energy use, a 96% reduction in emissions and a 64% reduction in energy costs and now have a healthier lived in environment.

You can find Andy’s presentation here

Jennie Stopford of Cornwall Council gave the audience the big picture of the Council’s program of decarbonising which stretches to 2045 when the objective, for example, is to have 30-50% of houses fitted with photo-voltaic solar panels. With regards to heat-pumps, Cornwall is leading all other counties in the UK with more than 5% of dwellings now fitted with one.

You can find Jenny’s presentation here

Kate Royston from Tamar Energy Community explained how they can support Parish households, including a free visit by one of their retrofit energy advisors to explain all the technical and funding options available, including grants and loans.

You can find Kate’s presentation here

Also exhibiting and taking part in a Q&A session chaired by Richard Davies, were Clare Moody from Community Energy Plus, Jack Morewood from University of Plymouth and Rob Tapson from Eco NRG.
Questions ranged from smart-meters, radiator and/or under floor heating combinations to on-going heatpump servicing.

Amongst the delegates were residents who already have heat-pumps installed, including one Luckett resident who had a system installed as far back as 2010. A bit like speed-dating, residents who had systems installed were matched with those considering if a heat-pump is right for them!

A huge thank you to Edah and her team of community volunteers who gave up their valuable time to refresh and support this meeting, including an amazing spread of canapes.

Scan the QR code here to access a handout from the meeting with contains lots of useful information and contact details. You can also access the handout here.

Stay Cosy!

Tamar Energy Fest – Sat Nov 9th

Tamar Energy Fest – Sat Nov 9th

By Kate Royston

Tamar Energy Community (TEC) has been hosting the annual Tamar Energy Fest since 2012, and this year we look forward to welcoming you to Butchers’ Hall in Tavistock on Saturday 9th November from 10:00 until 15:00. Do pop in and see us!

Our theme this year is “Cosy, Efficient, and Future-Ready”. We’re focused on supporting you with practical strategies for retrofitting homes to enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and resilience against rising energy costs and climate change.

With free entry, there’s plenty to interest you if you’re concerned about the climate and biodiversity emergency, carbon reduction, and energy efficiency—or simply looking to lower your bills.

Free, impartial advice will be available from our knowledgeable experts and exhibitors on retrofitting, energy management and more. You’ll also find information stalls, and interactive displays offering insights into effective strategies for reducing energy consumption and making informed home improvement decisions.

Our exhibitors will include Dartmoor Energy, NEA (National Energy Action), South West Water, Bramhill Builders, Fell Partnership, Kensa Heat Pumps and Metalectrique. We’re also being joined by Devon Wildlife Trust, Tavy Rail, Tamar Valley National Landscape, Tavistock Library and Transition Tavistock.

Whether you’re interested in implementing small changes or undertaking larger projects, Tamar Energy Fest provides a valuable opportunity to learn and connect with others committed to a sustainable future.

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday. Find out more here.

Tamar Energy Fest 2025

TAMar
ENergy fest
2025

Butcher’s Hall, Tavistock
Saturday 22nd November 
10:00-15:00.

 We were delighted to welcome over 900 visitors to last year’s Tamar Energy Fest. We’re now preparing for 2025, which will take place at Butchers’ Hall in Tavistock on Saturday 22nd November, from 10:00 to 15:00.

Join us for a family-friendly day focused on practical strategies for retrofitting homes to improve energy efficiency, comfort and resilience. Expect hands-on advice, informative exhibits and opportunities to connect with local experts and fellow community members.

.

Our 2024 Tamar Energy Community displays included:

Energy Advice

At Tamar Energy Community we provide free impartial advice to help you manage your energy bills, reduce costs, and improve your energy efficiency.

If you need support or advice you can get in touch.

Community Solar

Working with local organisations we’ve installed 427kW of community owned solar PV across seven sites. 

Find out more here!

Retrofit Advice

Retrofitting – its about doing things to improve existing homes and buildings to make them as energy efficient as possible.

So take the first step and book your free and impartial retrofit advice visit here!

Warmer Bedford Cottages

TEC worked with Tavistock Town Council, West Devon Borough Council and the Tavistock Heritage Initiative on an innovative project to understand the best ways of enhancing our Bedford Cottages across the area to make them more comfortable and reduce heating costs.

Carbon Zero Homes Project

Retrofit is a journey and a good place to start is to watch the animation from the Stoke Climsland Carbon Zero Homes project. You can find it here! 

Warmer Healthier Homes

Working with West Devon CVS and other stakeholders across West Devon to deliver our Warmer Healthier Homes (WHH) programme.

This programme looks at how we can address fuel poverty and unhealthy homes across the area.

Exhibitors Displays

We were joined by experts from a number of organisations who were sharing their knowledge; together with our own advisors.

 

We’re confirming this year’s line-up. Keep an eye out for updates. 

Activities

Activities for children … and adults included:

  • Creative colouring fun for families.
  • Climate and Biodiversity Tree – pledge sustainable commitments to your future self and display them on our tree.
  • What is watt? – Match up everyday electric household items with the amount of power they use.

 

 

If you’d like to exhibit, or help us out and volunteer on the day, OR YOU’D LIKE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT US please get in touch.

 

More about our Exhibitors

New Generation Energy – Renewable Energy Solutions

Designing, supplying, installing and maintaining bespoke renewable energy systems for the past nine years with an emphasis on customer satisfaction and an ethos of ongoing support and maintenance for our current and future client base.

Established in 2007 by Andrew Metcalf and based in the South West we have installed hundreds of renewable systems, from small photovoltaic arrays to large commercial biomass boilers and are MCS accredited for all our technologies.

Lendology cic – Lending decisions for people, by people

Lendology CIC disrupt traditional lending with our decisions powered by partnerships and people, enriching homes, and lives through affordable finance. 

Working in partnership with West Devon Borough Council, we lend council funds to homeowners for home repairs, improvements, renewable energy measures and to improve the energy efficiency of homes. 

Unlike other mainstream lenders, Lendology doesn’t use algorithms or credit scores. People make lending decisions for people.  They believe that everyone should have access to a home that is safe, warm, and suitable for their individual needs and works across the community to enable this, reduce fuel poverty and establish the link between health and homes.  If you are worried about the rising cost of energy, we recommend taking action now to ensure your central heating is working and that your home is as energy efficient as possible.

Lendology will be available until 14:00 on Sat. 12th November.

Lovely Savings – A Utility Warehouse Partner

Lovely Savings, a Discount Club helping families and small businesses save money on their essentials

Devon Wildlife Trust – Protecting wildlife for the future

Devon Wildlife Trust logo

Established over fifty years ago by a small group of volunteers, Devon Wildlife Trust is the only charity that exists to protect all wildlife in Devon and to safeguard Devon’s unique natural environment.

NEA – National Energy Action – Action for Warm Homes

From October, with the government’s price freeze in effect, National Energy Action predicts 6.7 million UK households will be in fuel poverty. It means they cannot afford to live in a warm, dry  and safe home. National Energy Action is the national charity working to end fuel poverty in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Find out more about the challenge we face, the difference we make, and the difference you can make.

Transition Tavistock – Working towards a sustainable future for Tavistock and District

Local travel as it could be?

Our meetings share views on how easy it is to use sustainable transport around the Tavistock area and to nearby towns – and ideas on how it could be better and more inclusive. Frequent, well-connected public transport in all directions; easy to walk, use a wheelchair or cycle to reach facilities; leading rather than lagging in the shift to low emission vehicles for both personal and business travel? What changes would you make?

We’re keen to involve individuals, groups and businesses who want to shape this vision for mobility, influence decisions and encourage low-carbon travel habits. Whether your concern is potholed pavements or diesel fumes, cycle safety or bus routes, get in touch on travel@transitiontavistock.org.uk.

Tavistock Neighbourhood Plan

Have your say on the future of the parish of Tavistock

A Neighbourhood Development Plan gives the residents of Tavistock and surrounding areas a say on how the community develops, how land will be used and how we can protect what’s important to us. We can address topics like affordable housing, community infrastructure, protecting green spaces and more.

Events

Events

Up and Coming Events

Friends of St Eustachius’ – Christmas Tree Festival – 2024

Tamar Energy Community is excited to take part in the 2024 Christmas Tree Festival hosted by The Friends of St Eustachius Church, Tavistock. This cherished event is a favourite in the Tavistock calendar and raises vital funds for preserving and enhancing the beautiful St Eustachius Church. 

We are proud to support the festival by sponsoring a tree.  

Our tree, is adorned with illustrations showcasing ways to make your home more cosy, efficient and future ready.

This may include smaller and larger changes, such as improved insulation and heating, smart heating controls, and draught-proofing windows and doors which can make homes warmer and more sustainable.

Join us in celebrating the holiday season, while supporting a fantastic cause. The event is open to all, with entry just £1 for adults, and children are free.  

You can find out more here!

FUEL POVERTY AWARENESS DAY 2024

Wednesday 27 November 2024 is National Energy Action’s Fuel Poverty Awareness Day (FPAD). Six million households are in fuel poverty, with a growing mountain of debt putting pressure on those least able to afford it.

Across Devon, our Community Energy Organisations are holding a series of face-to-face events.

There’s also an opportunity to join an on-line webinar for Front-Line Workers providing advice and support on dealing with fuel poverty.

You’ll be able to find us at the TASS Community Cafe on 27th November for our Bills and Chills Clinic.

Please drop in!

You’re also invited to join us for a Fuel Poverty Awareness Webinar hosted by 361 Energy on Thursday, 28th November at 11:00 AM. This session will provide valuable insights into how you can support local residents or householders in need of your services, who are affected by fuel poverty, and offer practical advice on improving energy efficiency. 

Webinar Details: Thursday, 28th November at 11:00 am; Register here: Zoom Registration Link 

If you’re not able to join the webinar and/or you’d appreciate a briefing from our team to your’s please drop us an email to hello[@]tamarenergycommunity.com.

To find out more about Fuel Poverty Awareness Day check out National Energy Action here.

ENERGY FESTS 2024

We were delighted with the success of our 2024 Energy Fests

Sat. Oct 26th – 10:00 to 15:00 – Oke Energy Fest – Charter Hall – EX20 1AA

Sat. Nov 9th – 10:00 to 15:00 – Tamar Energy Fest – Butchers’ Hall, Tavistock – PL19 0AL