Bristol Energy Network Holds Inaugural Meeting
New Community Energy Network Formed in Bristol There are now so many community groups, organisations and people active in community energy projects in Bristol that we are forming a network. The Easton Energy Group convened the first meeting of the Bristol Energy Network on the 7th of October at Hamilton House, Stokes Croft. The purpose of the meeting was to explore what those interested in community-scale energy efficiency and energy generation would need from, and could contribute to, a Bristol Energy Network forum, in order to enable action. 50 people attended, including individuals, representatives from 16 community groups, and staff from the Centre for Sustainable Energy (who were providing facilitation support), The Converging World, Shift Bristol, Bristol Debt Advice Centre and Bristol City Council to name but a few. Short presentations were given by each group on the community energy projects they are engaged in, and/ or planning. Afterwards smaller groups discussed both successful and challenging aspects of their work, as well as what the Bristol Energy Network could be, and what it could do for them. The aim is to establish quarterly meetings of the network, and there was plenty of enthusiasm on the night to have another meeting. Bristol Energy Network is being run by volunteers who also give their time to other community energy groups. If you have any time spare to help, wish to join the network or would like to get notes from the inaugural meeting, e-mail: bristol.energy.network@gmail.com.