Energising East Durham with National Lottery funding
East Durham Trust has received almost £1.2 million from the Climate Action Fund to support its Energising East Durham project, which aims to reduce household energy footprints by 20% in 22 town and villages in the area over five years.
This transformative project will build community-owned energy networks and infrastructure, equipping households and community facilities across East Durham to be more resilient against future climate and energy challenges.
With the goal of creating sustainable and equitable energy systems, Energising East Durham will empower residents to lead the way in addressing the dual crises of energy instability and climate change. Based in Peterlee, East Durham Trust will establish ten local ‘Energiser Hubs’, as well as a flagship Beacon Hub in Horden, which will provide advice and direct support to households in need, including guidance on how to access Government programmes such as the Green Deal.
The project compliments the Horden mine water scheme, which is exploring how water from former coalmines can be used to heat homes, schools and businesses, and is part of Durham County Council's plans to become carbon neutral by 2045.
With up to 29% of households in East Durham currently considered to be in fuel-poverty, compared to the national average of 13.1%*, the project aims to pave the way for a greener, more energy efficient future for the area.
Graham Easterlow, CEO of East Durham Trust, said: “This funding is a game-changer for our communities. Many people in our area face extreme energy poverty, and it’s vital that they are not left behind in the green transition. This project will not only reduce energy costs, but ensure our communities are part of the solution to the climate crisis.”
As well as providing advice to households on how to save on their energy bills and reduce their emissions, East Durham Trust offers help with everything from food parcels to debt advice as part of its community-led support.
The trust is home to workers specialising in volunteering, financial wellbeing and community facing support, with an on-site Arts Café featuring work from local school children.
Graham said: “Thanks to this significant funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, East Durham will set an example for how deprived post-industrial areas can lead in tackling global challenges.”