Six Lichfield community buildings are benefitting from a fund created by energy saving projects.
The money comes from surpluses in Southern Staffordshire Community Energy’s (SSCE) solar schemes and other initiatives.
The Lichfield Garrick is one of the organisation’s to benefit after the fund provided an energy audit which has led to the installation of energy-saving LED-lighting.
Chris Moore, director of operations at the Lichfield Garrick, said: “The fantastic work that SSCE is doing in its field has synergies with the community projects that the theatre delivers in education relating to the arts.
“It has been great to work with a like-minded organisation committed to positive outcomes for members of the community that our two respective organisations serve.”
The SSCE Community Fund has also supported audits at other local community buildings including Shenstone Village Hall, Handsacre Church, Beacon Park Scout Hut and Martin Heath Hall.
Mike Kinghan, chair of SSCE, said: “We are delighted to be able to help organisations like the Lichfield Garrick and other community organisations that provide important local services.
“This shows, on a small scale so far, the potential benefits of locally-owned and controlled renewable energy. There is huge potential here for communities to own and supply their own power and it is very exciting to be in the forefront of this energy revolution.”
The grant aid came from SSCE`s community fund provided by the surplus generated from its first project involving the installation of solar panels on St Giles Hospice and Whittington Village Hall. The two buildings receive free solar electricity, community shareholders are paid a modest rate of interest and the surplus is reinvested in other energy-saving projects.
