Call on Stroud District Council to look at more measures re oil price rises

This evening's Cabinet had a number of interesting issues - like an excellent presentation by Youth Council members about the hopes for using a council property in May Lane, Dursley for a youth centre. There was also a look at the Severn Power Feasability Study and I was delighted that the Council looks set to make a submission re the Environmental impacts - more of this in a blog soon.

Anyhow when it came to the District Council's Environment Strategy I welcomed the report and the steps that have been achieved like the Council's 'Warm and Well' free insulation scheme to over 65s and some other groups (i). This is a good start in tackling fuel poverty and climate change, however the impact of oil price rises mean that more people are now facing fuel poverty. I made the point that across the District virtually all of us are coming to terms with rising bills and many of us are very worried by news that oil prices are likely to continue to rise.

I sought from the Cabinet a commitment to consider what additional emergency measures could be put in place to help lessen the impact of oil price rises on the council, businesses and residents. I was pleased that the Cabinet said they will look at this issue.

Kirklees Council for example ( an example I've mentioned many times) are giving free insulation to all householders paid for by the utility companies. This measure is set to cut average household bills by £150 a year - bigger savings now with the fuel price rises. We need to encourage more people to insulate and take other energy efficiency measures.

As I said to an SNJ journalist after the meeting the fact is that cheap oil has made possible much of what we take for granted: our food, heating our homes and the way we work, travel and entertain ourselves. Greens have, for years, been warning that the era of cheap oil will be over. We don't know when the oil will run out, but indications are that we have reached the peak and scientists say we will be the first generation to reach the end of one fuel source without another. It is tragic that not more has been done by our Government to lead on this issue. We should not underestimate the enormity of the problem, nor the urgency required to implement solutions.

Note:
(i) Grants available for energy efficiency and renewable technology measures. If you are considering installing insulation measures or renewable technologies, there are several grant possibilities available. For loft insulation and cavity fill insulation, phone Warm and Well on 0800 512 012. These measures are free to the over 65s, and to various other groups. For advice about energy efficient boilers, and any help or discounts that may be available, contact the Energy Efficiency Advice Centre (EEAC) on 0800 512 012. For non-standard insulation measures such as solid wall and sloping ceiling insulation, contact Stroud District Council for further information about the WISE Homes grant on 01453 754464. There is a contribution available to all, regardless of age and means, for specific insulation measures. The WISE Homes grant also provides a £500 contribution towards renewable technologies. The WISE Homes grant is available in addition to any contribution from the government’s Low Carbon Building Grant for renewable technologies. www.lowcarbonbuildings.org.uk