News
Smart Meters are Coming
Fri, 22 July 2016The national rollout of smart meters has begun. The meters will replace the current meters we have in our homes and will end estimated billing and the need to take meter readings. They will also give us more information about how much energy we’re using at any one time. The government would like every home to have a smart meter by 2020, but they’re not compulsory and householders will need to request one, so do spread the word! Apply for one online
There are also grants available for groups that would like to assist those in their communities who would benefit from a smart meter but may need help to have one installed and understand how to make use of it. Find out more and apply here.
As part of the smart meter rollout, British Gas is offering a free day of electricity per weekend to customers who upgrade to a smart meter. Customers can select to receive free electricity between 9am and 5pm on either Saturdays or Sundays. The ‘FreeTime Tariff’ will be the company’s lowest dual fuel tariff and will be fixed until March 2018. Results from a trial showed that consumers saved around £60 per year and moved an average of 11% of their energy use to the free periods. Market experts are still advising consumers to shop around as other fixed term non smart meter deals may be cheaper overall. However, shifting behaviour in this way is thought to be key to helping manage peak periods on the UK’s already struggling electricity grid - http://bit.ly/298qLfz
West Bridgford Cycling Network Consultation
Fri, 22 July 2016
There's a chance to comment on a proposed new cycle network area which aims to enhance existing cycle routes and create new ones in the West Bridgford area.
The consulation closes on 2nd August and can be found online.
New Wildlife Watch Kid's Group in Ilkeston
Wed, 20 July 2016
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust is starting a new Wildlife Watch group for children in Victoria Park, Ilkeston. The first session will be running on Wednesday 3rd August from 3-4.30pm.
The group would love to welcome some more volunteers to assist with events. Please contact ewood@derbyshirewt.co.uk if you can help.
Funding Available to Support Vulnerable Households with Energy Advice
Wed, 20 July 2016
A new fund is available to help community organisations to deliver support serives for vulnerable households over this coming winter. Western Power Distribution are working with Centre for Sustainabe Energy to offer up to £20,000 per group is available to fund activities that help to identify those eligible for the Priority Service Register (PSR) and to give advice and support to people on the PSR with reducing their energy costs and improving the warmth of their homes. The PSR is available to households where someone is particularly vulnerable to interruptions in their energy supply (e.g. because of their age or long term health condition).
To be eligible for a grant, organisations need to be based in Western Power Distribution’s network area; most, but not all, of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire is covered by WPD. If you’re unsure if you’re covered, please visit WPD's website. Deadline for applications is 29th July 2016.
Find out more and apply here
Foundation Derbyshire Looking for Projects to Fund
Wed, 20 July 2016
Foundation Derbyshire are on the hunt for some exceptional local projects to inspire our donor funds. Could your group or a group you know benefit from an injection of cash?
The organisation manages a number of grant funds. If you're a local group and have a project that needs funding simply call the grants team on 01773 525860 for a chat and they will see if one of thier funds might match with your need.