A free event aimed at sparking an interest in sustainable energy is to take place next month.

The line-up on Wednesday, March 4 is expected to inspire interested Essex communities into action – to reduce reliance on imported fuels and save money on energy bills.

The seminar, an Essex County Council (ECC) and Colchester Borough Council partnership event, will comprise of guest speakers from community energy groups – with the aim to equip the audience with the knowledge on how to get projects off the ground and raise the funds needed so they can start saving, reducing energy use or generating their own sustainable energy.

It will be hosted at the Weston Homes Community Stadium in Colchester.

Councillor Roger Hirst, cabinet member for the environment at ECC, said: “Community energy is about putting people in control of the energy they use – it is about community-led action.

“A community energy project could be focused around a school or a village hall, and once a group of active volunteers have come together the possibilities for green energy are endless.”

And Cllr Tim Young, of Colchester Borough Council, said: “Schools, village halls and sports clubs have already signed up for this great event and I’d urge anyone who is interested to sign up soon to avoid disappointment. There is going to be a growing emphasis on communities becoming more resilient and sustainable in the future.”

Community energy projects could range from a new energy-efficient boiler in the local village hall, to improving insulation in the community sports pavilion or even a solar PV installation on the roof of the local school. There are also opportunities for generating income for a community through government financial subsidies.

Attendees are not required to have a working understanding of renewable energy technology; rather the day aims to provide communities with all the knowledge and contacts to complete their own projects.

The programme is scheduled to start at 9.30am. To book a place at the free event, click here.