Community Energy Workshop

Exploring Community Energy Opportunities in Devon

Dalwood Village Hall 22^nd September 2026 from 18:00 - 20:30 hrs.

Dalwood, AXMINSTER Devon EX13 7EG

Are you part of a community group interested in reducing energy costs, tackling climate change, or creating a more resilient local future?

Join us for an inspiring and practical workshop exploring Community Energy and how individuals and local communities can take meaningful action with our guest speaker: Fuad Al-Tawil

We are delighted to welcome Fuad Al-Tawil from Action on Climate in Teignbridge (ACT), who brings over 11 years of experience developing successful community energy projects. Fuad was instrumental in establishing Teign Energy Communities, a Community Benefit Society that has helped build a thriving network of community energy initiatives across Devon. He will share the lessons learned, practical experience, and expertise gained from working alongside community groups throughout the region.

What will we explore?

Community Energy isn't just about installing solar panels or renewable technologies. Successful projects begin by asking important questions:

• What is our community trying to achieve?
• Are our priorities tackling climate change, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, addressing fuel poverty, or improving energy justice?
• Should we focus first on reducing energy demand through retrofit and efficiency before investing in renewable generation?

Fuad will discuss why understanding how our homes and buildings perform, how we use energy, and the science of heating and comfort is essential. Improving energy efficiency and eliminating waste are often the biggest and most cost-effective steps communities can take before considering renewable energy solutions.

Our local CAG Devon member, The Corry Valley Community Land Trust, will share their plans and progress to date with the local community. They will highlight the approaches they are considering for community buildings and local community energy projects, and how they’ve engaged, invited ideas and participation from local residents.

We'll also discuss the importance of building trusted local networks of installers, advisors and suppliers to support successful community projects.

Useful resources

Whether you're just beginning or already involved in community energy, there are excellent resources available to help.

• The Devon Retrofit Guide, produced by Energy Saving Devon, is a comprehensive introduction to home retrofit and energy efficiency.

You'll also find valuable information on the Action on Climate in Teignbridge (ACT) website, particularly:

• The Essential Background section on Community Energy
• The Built Environment pages, which include guidance on retrofit and links to local support services.

Who should attend?

This workshop is ideal for:

• Community groups
• Climate and sustainability groups
• Community organisations
• Anyone interested in developing local energy projects or improving energy efficiency in their community

Come along to learn, ask questions, exchange ideas and connect with others who are helping shape Devon's low-carbon future.

With support from: