Hi Dan – it’s data from a 12 month period so includes both summer and winter. To get a better breakdown have a look at the raw data set in the link in the piece.

The moral of this story is that this is the way capitalism works, it’s not meant for the masses, it meant for the few who own the capital. And until we start playing their game our way, that’s the way it’s going to stay! Co-operatives are a great way to democratise our energy supply and put it where it belongs…with the people who use it. But until we can start supplying ourselves with the energy we generate, the connection won’t be made in people’s heads and we will remain passive consumers. Time to wake up people!

This year, 16 eco-friendly homes will open their doors to the public, nine for the first time. Lewes homes will open on 14th-15th September, and Barcombe, Ditchling and surrounding villages will open on 21st-22nd September.

The inspiring homes on show range from renovated Victorian cottages to 1960’s conversions and stunning architect designed new-build properties. Properties in the villages and countryside feature exciting off grid measures such as air, ground and water source heat pumps, as well as being examples of good eco building. All have drastically cut their electricity, gas and water bills as well as carbon emissions. Details of addresses and opening hours are on our new dedicated website, http://www.lewesecoopenhouses.org.uk/

The event is organised by Transition Town Lewes with the participation of Barcombe Energy Group and Hassocks, Keymer, Ditchling Transition. The homes are free to visit and all are welcome.

We would like to ask you to promote this event via your newsletters and other networks or circulation lists. I’m putting up details on websites with events listings and would be very grateful if you can help with this. This press release has all the details: http://www.lewesecoopenhouses.org.uk/info/press-releases. Photos are available on the website.

Please also consider promoting what OVESCO is doing with Cooperatives UK and Forum for the Future to promote the ‘Community Energy Fortnight’ at the same time. OVESCO is holding a Community Energy Day at the Linklater Pavilion in Lewes on 6th September. See http://www.forumforthefuture.org/project/community-energy-coalition/overview

http://www.forumforthefuture.org/forum-network/events/community-energy-fortnight-community-energy-showcase

Hi John,
If you’re an income tax payer then yes, the 4% is taxable. Note, however, that we qualify for the Enterprise Investment Scheme, which will give you a 30% tax rebate on your total investment.
BEC

Hi Mark,
To be honest I’m not sure either. when you are on our Energyshare group page here the red box in the top right of the picture (near the top centre of the page) seems to be the ‘members’ join bit, and the blue bar on the right the ‘supporters’ bit. However, they both seem to involve the same proceedure. If you work it out please let me know. Cheers
Will