Chetwynd ,Toton and Chilwell CIC.( Chetwynd CIC Ltd )
The Community Interest Company (CIC) started by the Chetwynd Neighbourhood Forum, has been awarded a regional grant to prepare the business case and define technical research for a Community Solar Energy Network which will be owned and run locally for the benefit of the community.
The award prepares the ‘startup phase’ for a business that aims to benefit our area first, but in time could help other East Midlands communities to take a step forward as part of a Solar Energy Community and Net Zero future.
Ian Ward Director of the Chetwynd CIC said, ‘the Neighbourhood Plan sets out our Zero Carbon ambitions and it’s a little ironic, that in the month the UK’s last coal fired power station at Ratcliffe-on-Soar closes for good – it’s the community in its shadow that begins the journey to make the most of emerging Solar networks for the benefit of the local community.’
The area already benefits from initiatives taken by individual homeowners however, we know many more new homes will soon be built, and we are determined to reduce the Area’s carbon footprint and devise a business that benefits the community. Whilst reducing the costs of energy for residents, we see this as an investment for future generations. Ian said, ‘It’s a chance to do it ourselves and create somethings special in our area. That makes us determined to be successful’.
Can You help – We are all local volunteers and we are looking for help in several professional fields – Financial / Legal / Technical to help establish the business. Please get in touch. A ‘Building a Net Zero Future’ workshop is being held at the Village Hotel on the 21st Oct 2024 – if you are interested to attend and to find out more, please book your place here : Net Zero Workshop