LOCAL residents are being encouraged to come together once again to ask what could local community energy generation look like in Peasedown, Shoscombe and Wellow.

Following the first event, a ‘Community Energy Open Day’ held on November 8 at The Hive, the community are being invited to the next instalment — a ‘Community Energy Forum and Buffet’ on Wednesday, February 25, from 6pm to 8.30pm at The Hive.

This free evening event will build on the Open Day’s discussions and begin shortlisting potential locations, with experts on hand to answer questions.

The event series is part of a new initiative, the Community Energy Network, hosted Bath & North East Somerset Council in partnership with Centre for Sustainable Energy and Bath and West Community Energy.

The open event in November explored renewable energy options, ways to save money on household energy bills, and how to get involved locally with Peasedown Environment Group and Future Wellow.

The event sparked lively discussion about local priorities and potential locations for community-owned energy.

Residents shared a wide range of opinions, including support for possible wind and solar near White Ox Mead and Colliery Lane, concerns about protecting Wellow’s views within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and questions about how solar might fit alongside any future housing south of Peasedown.

A spokesperson from Centre for Sustainable Energy said: “There will be a free meal to make it easier for people to attend on a weeknight. We also have a small, capped funding pot to help with childcare or taxi costs, please email us if you’d like to ask about this support.”

“We need as many different opinions as possible so that the next steps genuinely reflect what the community wants, or doesn’t want.”

An online survey remains open to gather more feedback and can be found at: www.bathnes.gov.uk/energy-your-community