THE first of five, free training events for community energy groups was staged earlier this month, as part of RegenSW's Community Energy Accelerator Project funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and Devon County Council.

Representatives from 14 community energy groups in Devon, interested in developing wind, solar, hydro or biomass renewable energy projects, gathered in Exeter to receive expert legal advice on group structures and landowner agreements from Stephens Scown Solicitors, which provided sponsorship for the event.

The day enabled the groups to ask specific questions about their projects which stimulated considerable discussion and generated positive feedback from all participants.

Peter Smith said:  'On behalf of Tamar Energy Community and of Peter Tavy Community Hydro, thank you all for an excellent informative day.'

Devon County councillor Roger Croad, cabinet member for community and environmental services, said: 'Offering the opportunity for local people to own a share of renewable energy development benefits the local economy, raises awareness of energy issues, improves the resilience of communities and reduces carbon emissions.

'I'm proud to support these initiatives in Devon.'

Further training in this series includes preparing a business plan on January 13, preparing a tender specification on January 27 and launching a community share offer on February 17.

Venues have to be confirmed, please check the website nearer the time for details at http://www.regensw.co.uk/communities/events/">www.regensw.co.uk/communities/events/

All community groups with an interest in energy are welcome to attend.

For further information about these events and the Community Energy Accelerator project contact Jodie Giles at [email protected]">[email protected]  or to book visit http://www.regensw.co.uk/communities/events/">www.regensw.co.uk/communities/events/