Pennine town pilots energy project

Residents in two small areas in and around the Pennine town are being encouraged to take part in the pilot scheme.

Those who decide to join will receive a comprehensive energy survey and advice on how to save energy costs and cut down on carbon emissions.

The Department of Energy and Climate Change has provided 110,000 to fund the trial.

The council will work with the Alternative Technology Centre, Pennine Housing, energy companies and contractors to test the principles of a wider project taking place within Yorkshire and Humber.

Participants will receive an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), valid for 10 years, setting out their home's energy efficiency rating and giving suggestions for how this could be improved, based on the household and individual property.

Further information will be provided on choosing energy suppliers, tariffs and payment options so that residents can confidently use price comparison services.

Details on renewable energy services will be also be offered to participants so they can explore the opportunities available.

Councillor Janet Battye, leader of the council said: "Hebden Bridge is the ideal place to launch this project. With just over 3000 people living in these areas we hope they will all join in this exciting scheme to help us make some real changes for our environment.

"The experience will also give Calderdale a head start in readiness for the Government's anticipated 'Green Deal' when it is launched in 2013."

Lessons learned in Hebden Bridge will affect how a larger scheme could be carried out. The pilot has started this week and will run for three months.

Local residents in the two target areas will each receive a letter with details on how to take part in the coming weeks.