SO Energy Wise, part of Testlands Wellbeing Hub, has been awarded a substantial grant of £490,000 to spearhead a new project to provide free energy advice to householders in Southampton.

This funding opportunity arises from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, in conjunction with the South West Net Zero Hub, aiming to explore cutting-edge approaches to delivering in-person, home energy advice. As well as in-person advice SO Energy Wise will be delivering thermal home surveys to residents to highlight the improvements they can make at home to reduce their energy use and cut their carbon footprint.

 

The grant, secured through a highly competitive application process, supports initiatives that align with the national commitment towards energy security and achieving net-zero emissions.

 

SO Energy Wise have the primary objective of providing expert energy advice without cost, allowing all of the community access to money-saving and energy-usage-reducing guidance.

 

Just the latest initiative by Testlands Wellbeing Hub, they have demonstrated remarkable dedication to community well-being and outreach programs, guaranteeing an inclusive and people-centric approach to the project.

 

"We are thrilled to have been chosen as a recipient of this prestigious funding from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the South West Net Zero Hub," said Luke Newman of Testlands Wellbeing Hub. "This grant will enable us to work hand in hand with the communities we support, and play a pivotal role in accelerating the transition to a sustainable and energy-efficient future in the South West."

 

The pilot project which will run for two years aims to provide detailed help and advice to over 4,700 people to help them improve their homes and reduce their energy bills. The project will also help identify grants that people can apply for to carry out the work on their homes.

 

Through their work, individuals and communities will be empowered to make more informed decisions regarding the energy efficiency of their homes.

 

“We can reach and support diverse consumer groups, ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and knowledge necessary to make sustainable choices for their homes and communities."

 

The project will be closely monitored and evaluated for its impact and effectiveness in delivering energy advice and fostering behaviour change. The results and learnings from this initiative are expected to be shared with other regions across the country, amplifying the reach and influence of these transformative programmes.

 

Jon Rattenbury, South West Net Zero Hub Programme Manager, said: “We are pleased to be able to award this funding on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to six South West based groups that have shown a real appetite to support their communities to take action to save carbon and improve the energy efficiency of their homes. We look forward to working with these groups to share the learning from the pilot projects on providing tailored advice and developing the provision of advice to support as many people as possible.”

 

SO Energy Wise and Testlands Wellbeing Hub extend their sincere gratitude to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the South West Net Zero Hub for entrusting them with this significant opportunity to make a difference in the transition towards a more sustainable future.

 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Lisa Beaney

Project Manager

Testlands Wellbeing Hub

lisa.beaney@testlandsmc.com

 

About Testlands Wellbeing Hub:

Testlands Wellbeing Hub is a dynamic community organisation dedicated to enhancing well-being, community resilience, and social cohesion in the Southampton Area. By providing accessible services and empowering local individuals, the Hub fosters positive change and supports a thriving community.