East Durham project looks to tackle climate emergency and energy crisis
The programme will help 24 villages and two towns
A programme has been launched to tackle the climate emergency and energy crisis in 24 villages and two towns in County Durham.
East Durham Trust and Horden Together has started 'Energising East Durham', which they say is a transformative project that will build community-owned energy networks, equipping households and community facilities across East Durham to be more resilient against future climate and energy challenges.
The charities say with the goal of creating sustainable and equitable energy systems, Energising East Durham will empower residents to lead the way in addressing the dual crises of energy instability and climate change. The project aims to reduce household energy footprints by 20%, foster greater community ownership of energy generation and distribution, and create a sustainable model for energy democratisation that can inspire other left-behind communities
Graham Easterlow, CEO of East Durham Trust, said: "This is a game-changer for our communities. Many people in our area face extreme energy poverty, and it’s vital that they are not left behind in the green transition.
"This project will not only reduce energy costs but ensure our communities are part of the solution to the climate crisis. Thanks to this significant funding, East Durham will set an example for how deprived post-industrial areas can lead in tackling global challenges.”
The charity adds that the need for intervention is critical. In parts of East Durham, up to 29% of households are considered fuel-poor, compared to the national average of 13.1%.
The region has historically had some of the lowest levels of community energy projects in the UK.
Energising East Durham say they will address these gaps by building local capacity, reducing energy inequality, and ensuring no one is left behind in the move towards a more sustainable future.
Energising East Durham will see a dedicated community energy team, tasked with providing direct support to households in East Durham. The community energy advice team helps residents switch energy providers, adopt renewable solutions, and access government programmes, enabling them to reduce their energy costs and environmental impact.
A flagship Beacon Hub has been established in Horden to serve as a national model for just decarbonisation, while ten Energiser Hubs will be set up in local community facilities to drive neighbourhood-led energy activities.
Four Energiser Hubs have already been established in Blackhall, Easington, Shotton and Wheatley Hill. In addition, a network of 200 volunteer ‘Energisers’ will work at the grassroots level to engage their communities in climate action and energy democracy.