Lismore neighbourhoods to tackle energy use

Darren Coyne

A grassroots energy-saving movement that started in the United Kingdom is being adopted in Lismore.

The Lismore initiative is based on the Transition Towns model from the UK, which brings together neighbours to promote practical ways to conserve energy.

The program is seen as a small step towards achieving Lismore’s ambitious goal of becoming self-sufficient with regards to its energy use by 2023. That goal is expected to focus heavily on solar power and measures to reduce energy consumption.

Lismore City Council has joined with the Lismore Community Sustainability Forum, a non-profit group run by volunteers to promote the venture.

Project officer Bronwyn White said that the free program would kick off with an information evening at the Lismore Workers Club from 5.30pm on June 6 .

‘The idea is to get together groups of eight to 10 households with a facilitator who would lead them through the various ways to save energy,’ she said.

‘They would be looking at such things as electricity bills and water fittings, and everyone will get a home energy audit that would identify the ways each household could address their energy efficiency.’

She said that measures could involve replacing lighting or insulation.

‘After each audit the households would receive a gift pack, worth $110, of goods such as water-saving showerheads or energy-efficient light bulbs.’

The program is seen as a small step towards achieving Lismore’s ambitious goal of becoming self-sufficient with regards to its energy use by 2023.

Ms White said it was clear that Lismore residents cared about where their energy comes from and how they use it.

‘Members of the Lismore community will benefit through saving money and energy in their homes, but we hope some of the longer-lasting benefits of this program will be people getting to know others in their neighbourhoods,’ she said.

Anyone wanting to take part should send their contact details to [email protected].