Cheaper energy bills for Plymouth with launch of energy co-operative

People in Plymouth will soon be able to benefit from cheaper energy bills as the City Council officially launches the Plymouth Energy Community.

Marking the end of International Co-operatives Fortnight members of the Plymouth Energy Community are celebrating as the co-operative is now a fully registered organisation.

The co-operative has been established after Plymouth City Council announced their commitment to negotiate better energy prices for local people and businesses, support energy efficiency and invest in renewable energy initiatives.

Cabinet Member for Co-operatives and Community Development, Councillor Chris Penberthy said: "Announcing the creation of the Plymouth Energy Community is a huge step forward, local residents and communities will soon be able to start reaping the benefits.

"This isn't just about cheaper energy bills, although that helps. It's also about tackling fuel poverty in the city, helping to change the environment by creating renewable energy and being as efficient with our energy use as we can be. It's also a way in which we can together help reduce our carbon footprint and through co-operation make a better future for Plymouth. This is just the start of exciting things to come, keep watching this space!"

Malcolm Clancy, Plymouth Community Homes resident, added: "Plymouth Energy Community is founded in the strong principles of a world-wide co-operative movement. Our members collectively have the power to negotiate better deals to help save money and improve energy efficiency in homes across the city.

"So far around 100 local people have signed-up to become a member and we'd like to encourage others throughout the city to join us to find out more about what we can achieve collectively and the difference that we can make to energy consumption and fuel bills for our community."

The official energy switching scheme will be launched on 17 July however people can join to become a member now by visiting the Plymouth Energy Community website or by calling 01752 477067.

The Plymouth Energy Community currently has almost 100 members and this is expected to increase significantly over the coming weeks.