A LOCAL energy partnership is approaching the rising cost of energy head on with an innovative study.

The South West Devon Community Energy Partnership (SWD CEP) is a unique network of local organisations including DARE in North Tawton, West Devon Borough Council, Devon County Council and the Dartmoor National Park Authority.

The group commissioned the University of Exeter to carry out a study of energy consumption in south west Devon.

Kate Royston, chair of the SWD CEP, said: 'The SWD CEP quickly realised that in order to influence policy and guidance within our area we needed to establish a robust evidence base.

'Therefore, to focus our future working we commissioned the University of Exeter to provide a study of South West Devon. This is an independent assessment of current energy consumption and opportunities for energy efficiency and renewable energy generation across the area.'

The study revealed that current energy consumption is divided in, approximately, equal thirds between the transport, domestic and non-domestic sectors.

This energy consumption results in approximately £0.4 billion being spent on energy in south west Devon – equivalent to about a fifth of the economic output of the area or about 15,000 full time jobs. Each person is effectively spending £2,600 each year on energy within this area.

The study is being used by the SWD CEP to discuss what the energy objectives for the area should be, what would be achievable, and what projects should be prioritised for maximum effect.

In parallel the SWD CEP is developing a number of initiatives across the area including community training, events and impartial advice on energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable transport; together with stakeholder engagement and consultation on policies.

The study was presented to local councillors and officers from South Hams, West Devon, Devon County and Dartmoor National Park in June.

Cllr Robert Oxborough of West Devon Borough Council said: 'Understanding all the dynamics, costs and impacts of how we use and create energy in our communities is essential for the future, and this study will help us to do that.  We must now look carefully at the evidence and the implications for our residents.'

l Community Energy Fortnight starts this Saturday — for more information, go to http://www.ukcec.org">www.ukcec.org