LOWER energy bills could be enjoyed by more people in the future as communities are being empowered to lead climate change initiatives.

This will be possible due to £1.5m National Lottery funding aimed at accelerating community-led energy projects.

The funding will see Community Energy South, supported by Hampshire County Council, expand its staff and volunteers to train and mentor a larger number of the community.

Hampshire County Council's cabinet member for climate change, Cllr Zoe Huggins, said: "While we are playing our part to support the Government’s mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower through cutting bills, creating jobs and the availability of cheaper, zero-carbon electricity by 2030, we have always been clear that success in tackling climate change and achieving Hampshire’s net zero target is reliant on residents and communities taking action.

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"But we know that they need help, advice and support to get started which is why the work of Community Energy South is so vital and why we have been a proud supporter of the organisation for the past four years."

Nicola Davidson, from Community Energy South, added: "Most of the groups we work with have done amazing things with a small core team of volunteers.

"But it’s hard to grow projects and impact from volunteer time only.

"This funding will create 33 jobs across 11 community energy groups, bring on 100 volunteers and provide up to 50,000 people with energy-saving advice.

"We will also see the creation of more renewable generation projects that are community-owned, with the increased energy generated helping to reduce the overall demand for electricity from the carbon-intensive national grid."

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Energise South Downs is one of 11 groups set to benefit from the funding boost.

The Hampshire group helps people and businesses in accessing or constructing their renewable energy sources like solar or wind power.

They run home advice services encouraging energy-saving practices, and creating collaboration among organisations to work towards a more sustainable future.

Catriona Cockburn, programme director at Energise South Downs, said: "Energise South Downs wants to reduce energy costs and help reach net zero goals for Hampshire residents.

"This funding support will enable us to move forward at pace, with additional staff and volunteers."