The intermittency of renewable energy resources means a mix of technologies (including storage) could be introduced to optimise the system's capacity to meet fluctuating demand profiles. Over the next several months we will be gathering as much information as possible from across the community to determine what this energy mix should look like.
Meeting our energy demands with suitable local resources makes for an efficient, clean system. Communities can be much more involved, taking more ownership and reap the benefits though discounted tariffs and grants.
There are several, straightforward options available for households to reduce energy bills. BVCE can offer impartial advice on switching supplier/tariff, free energy saving measures, energy efficiency measures and funding.
Community solar projects generate clean electricity which is used locally. Systems can be ground mounted or roof mounted. Electricity that is not used on-site (100% of the energy in the case of a community solar park) can be consumed by homes and businesses connected to the local electricity grid, effectively greening the local energy supply and reducing the carbon footprint of the community as a whole.
With four years to find a suitable alternative for gas boilers work is intensifying and interest growing for renewable heat. Heat pumps are commonly available in three forms - ground source heat pumps (GSHP), air source heat pumps (ASHP) and water source heat pumps (WSHP). Biomass and solar thermal systems can also provide effective alternatives.
A network of EV chargepoints would provide the opportunity for EV owners in Birch Vale to charge their cars at subsidised rates. BVCE are also exploring the demand/need for an EV car sharing service in the village.
Sign up to our monthly newsletter:
For the latest up dates on the feasibility study,
as well as opportunities and breakthroughs from community energy projects across the UK..