Local Energy Advice Demonstrator (LEAD)

In partnership with OVESCo, this demonstrator project delivered energy advice to over 6,000 people in four districts across Sussex and Essex. In Sussex, OVESCo built on previous energy advice projects and events – including their Eco-Extravaganza and their Eco Open Homes – to grow their advice services and reach 1,500 people. 

In Essex, Community Energy Pathways worked with a variety of community groups and organisations and successfully trained a large team who delivered energy-efficiency advice across the districts of Tendring, Uttlesford and Maldon. 

Having Energy Champions on the ground is essential for meaningful community engagement, practical advice, and encouraging uptake of energy-saving measures. While it requires effort to establish, with the right people and adequate funding it gains momentum. The team developed for this project became highly motivated and increasingly proactive. 

Through this work, we gained a clear understanding of the personality types and skills needed for successful part-time Energy Champions. The project provided flexible employment, purpose and new skills for those who joined the team. We employed 3 Energy Champion Coordinators who managed an in-house team of 15 Champions. We have since secured additional funding to employ 3 Coordinators and 8 Champions. 

We also trained volunteers to carry out thermal imaging surveys. They then worked with our Energy Champions to provide home visits in their communities. As a result of this project, strong relationships were formed with staff and volunteers who have since formed three new community energy groups. With future funding, these groups are likely to have the capacity to run an effective, independent energy-efficiency advice service.