THE Government’s proposed changes to Feed-In Tariffs (FIT) will adversely impact community energy groups across the South West, including here in the Tavistock area – Tamar Energy Community.

Community energy is an important way to enable local people to have more control, and say, over their energy, and for us to work together to reduce our costs. Developing local community owned projects will help us develop opportunities for local supply at, we hope, more advantageous local prices. This is not just a pipedream. A pilot project is underway in Wadebridge, Cornwall, to bring this closer to reality.

 The Government’s proposals are for a dramatic reduction in FITs from January 1, 2015. Locally generated energy brings jobs and investment to the region and these benefits are now at risk of being lost. A more gradual change is recommended with continued support for community owned projects.

 If you’d like to help us and participate in the Day of Action please write to our local MP and let him know how the proposed changes in the FIT Review will effect community renewable energy projects across the South West and ask him to send a letter on your behalf to the Secretary of State, Amber Rudd MP.

 To find out more please visit www.transitiontavistock.org.uk or come and see us in Bedford Square at lunchtime tomorrow (Friday). This includes a short film that local community groups have had made. We would also encourage you to have a look at the 10:10 website http://www.1010uk.org/ and sign the petition on the Parliament website.

Kate Royston

Transition Tavistock