Innovation Bids - latest information

We can confirm that the bid led by the Central Midlands Energy Efficiency Advice Centre (EEAC) covering all four LAs in Staffordshire was re-submitted on time towards the end of December.This bid was originally unsuccessful but changes have taken into account feedback from the managing agents of the scheme.

Not only has the emphasis of the bid changed but the title has been altered to reflect the new approach - the project name is now 'South Staffordshire Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Network'. We anticipate that the result of this re-submitted proposal will be known at the end of January. Thanks to all four Local Authorities in the area that have given their support, namely, Cannock Chase DC, Lichfield DC, South Staffordshire BC and Tamworth BC.

The second and successful Innovation Fund bid, the Black Country Community Energy Partnership, is now progressing through the feasibility stage. Discussions with all parties are commencing or will do so shortly. The LAs supporting this initiative are Dudley MBC, Sandwell MBC and Wolverhampton CC.

'Renewables' launch a great success!

The Black Country Renewable Advice Centre was officially launched at the Government Office - West Midlands in Birmingham in December. The event was well attended and was an opportunity to introduce this new service to Local Authorities and business in the region.

…and the next major event is…

The LASP team is now planning the next West Midlands HECA Forum Conference at the Molineaux Stadium, Wolverhampton on Thursday 27th March.

This Conference, sponsored by Scottish Power and supported by Wolverhampton CC, will also have a renewable theme. The title will be 'Renewable Energy - the next HECA challenge?'

Recent statements from the Government have pushed renewable technologies and the Conference will provide an excellent opportunity to explore the surrounding issues. All those who receive this LASP update will receive an invitation for this important event - in the meantime add the date to your diaries!

Get your name into print!

In conjunction with each LA HECA Officer the LASP team will again be producing a glossy publication to be circulated within all ten local authorities in the region to help promote energy efficiency and sustainability. Pages one and four will be personalised to your own local authority. We would like to include within this a 'day in the life' article highlighting an individual within each LA. This could perhaps be a Member, HECA Officer or Chief Executive! If you, or anyone you know would make a suitable candidate please contact us.

LASP - an explanation

The Local Authority Support Programme (LASP) is a project funded by EST to assist LAs in meeting targets required by the Home Energy Conservation Act 1995 (HECA). The Central Midlands and Black Country LASP offers strategic support to ten LAs across the two EEAC areas. The work involves a range of activities and these monthly updates keep LAs informed of progress.