Fintry residents are getting SMART about energy

A pioneering '˜smart energy' project is being launched in Fintry to help cut residents' energy bills and reduce the area's carbon footprint.
By The Newsroom
Published 17th Oct 2016, 10:47 BST
Updated 25th Oct 2016, 14:34 BST
Fintry is taking part in a SMART energy projectFintry is taking part in a SMART energy project
Fintry is taking part in a SMART energy project

The SMART Fintry project will give residents more control over their energy by using the latest technology to link their homes with local sources of renewable electricity such as solar panels and wind turbines.

The first project of its kind in the UK, SMART Fintry aims to set a new blueprint for making communities more energy-self-sufficient while also helping to tackle climate change.

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Funded by The Local Energy Challenge Fund, managed by Local Energy Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government, the project is being run by Fintry Development Trust, together with commercial and academic partners, including renewable energy company Good Energy.

Gordon Cowtan, a Fintry resident and founder of Fintry Development Trust said: “This is a cutting-edge project and we’re really proud to have been awarded funding to make it happen in our local community.

“Many Fintry households will see lower bills from joining the project, and we’re hoping to introduce even more benefits going forward.”

Government funding is being used to provide a free smart meter, an electricity meter which sends readings automatically, for every household which joins the scheme.

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Jennifer Ramsay from the Local Energy Scotland said: “It’s fantastic to see Fintry at the forefront of smart energy, and this project demonstrates the benefits technology can bring.

“I would encourage every household in the village to join SMART Fintry; it’s a fantastic opportunity to become part of an exciting project with real tangible benefits for local people.”

Will Vooght, innovation manager at Good Energy said: “We’ve had a fantastic response from Fintry so far.

“As well as lower bills and more control over energy usage, SMART Fintry participants have the added benefit of being supplied by 100% renewable electricity.”

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A launch event will take place at Fintry Sports and Recreation Club on Friday, October 21. Representatives from Fintry Development Trust and Good Energy will be on hand to explain more about the project and invite households to register.