News / energy bills
‘Blueprint’ energy partnership pledges support for helpline
Bristol City Leap has committed to provide long term financial support to the Centre for Sustainable Energy’s (CSE) free energy helpline.
CSE has reported a rise in inquiries from consumers around managing their bills. Callers to the helpline receive free informed advice from trained energy advisors.
Janine Michael, CSE’s deputy chief executive, said: “We’re seeing a significant increase in calls to our advice line each year, reflecting the growing challenges posed by rising living costs and soaring energy prices.
“Many local people are struggling to keep their homes warm. This funding contribution from Bristol City Leap is crucial.”
Launched in 2023 as a partnership between Bristol City Council, Ameresco and Vattenfall Heat UK, Bristol City Leap is cited as a ‘blueprint’ for decarbonisation at the city level – photo: Bristol City Leap
Bristol City Leap, a £1bn partnership between Bristol City Council, Ameresco and Vattenfall Heat UK that has won awards for innovation in the arena of decarbonisation at city level, has pledged £20,000 per year for the next four years.
The money will ensure local residents can continue to receive expert advice on their energy bills and ways to make their homes warmer.
Mark Aspey, Bristol City Leap managing director, said: “Bristol City Leap is dedicated to making a tangible difference by supporting initiatives that provide direct and impactful benefits to residents.
“By supporting the free energy advice helpline, we are ensuring that more individuals and families have access to essential guidance on managing their energy consumption.
“Our commitment of £20,000 per year over the next four years underscores our dedication to social value and sustainability. We believe that empowering residents with the knowledge and resources to make their homes more energy-efficient is a significant step towards a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable Bristol.”
CSE has seen a sharp rise of inquiries where consumers have been looking into ways of managing their bills – photo: CSE
The personalised services provided by CSE include advice on ways to slash gas and electricity bills, grants and financial help available and ways to make draughty homes warmer and more comfortable.
The new £1.5 million Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund is also delivering grants and loans to support community energy projects all over the city.
For more information about the funding and the services provided by CSE’s energy advice helpline, visit www.cse.org.uk/my-home/how-we-help-you/
Main photo: Centre for Sustainable Energy
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