by Catrina Pickering (Project Manager)
5 February 2009
A group of local volunteers concerned about climate change have taken it upon themselves to help households across Reading find out how they can reduce their energy bills and cut their carbon footprint. The group, who call themselves the Reading Energy Pioneers, are planning a series of events to be held in February across Reading to assist local residents in finding out about grants and to potentially take advantage of 'bulk buying' discount schemes with local suppliers.
“Approximately 24% of the average person's carbon footprint is made up in the home” said Philip Allen, a Reading Energy Pioneer. “Installing renewable technologies and energy saving measures helps homeowners to achieve immediate reductions in their home fuel costs while enabling them to shrink their carbon footprint. It's a win-win – a single household stands to cut its carbon emissions by as much as 50% and save up to £405 a year on energy bills.”
The go-ahead group was originally formed in September 2008 at an event facilitated by the national climate change organisation, Climate Outreach and Information Network, and hosted by Greater Reading Environmental Network. Following the event they formed a “climate action group” focusing on home energy and have spent the last few months researching grants, contacting suppliers and organising the events.
“I've really enjoyed being a part of the group”, said Sabrina Piergrossi, a Reading Energy Pioneer. “We all feel that there is a great deal to be achieved by bringing people together as a community and connecting them to expert advice that they can in turn use to benefit themselves and the wider world.”
The events are due to take place in the four local areas of each pioneer. Energy experts will be present at each event and there will be the opportunity to join Reading Energy Pioneers’ bulk buying discount scheme. The events are scheduled as follows:
Coley 6.30-8pm, 10 February 2008
All Saints Church Hall, Downshire Square, Bath Road
(with True Food Co-op - enjoy some organic food shopping before the event)
Whiteknights 7.30pm, 12 February 2008
Small Hall at Park United Reform Church, corner of Wokingham Road / Palmer Park Avenue
(refreshments provided)
Tilehurst 8pm, 18 February 2008
Methodist Church, Youth Hall
(opposite the main COOP store) School Road
(after the 7pm Tilehurst Globe RESCUE meeting)
Eldon 7-8pm, 19 February 2008
Warehouse Centre, Cumberland Road, off Cemetery Junction
(with True Food Co-op - enjoy some organic food shopping before the event)
Residents are invited to simply turn up on the day at any one of these four events.
