We've all heard about climate change and solar panels, and now businesses and householders can find out what they can do to generate their own heat and power.

Marches Energy Agency has set up two technology fairs, in Ellesmere and in Cleobury Mortimer, to help promote renewable technologies and energy efficient measures. There will be displays of technologies such as solar panels ad energy efficient light bulbs, with a chance to meet suppliers and installers, as well as get independent advice. 

These fairs are free and open to all businesses and private individuals who want to learn more about how they can reduce their utility bills, generate their own heat and power and reduce their carbon footprint.

The fairs will be held in Ellesmere College on Wednesday 9^th April, and The Wyre Suite, Cleobury Mortimer Golf Club on Thursday 17^th April 2008, both are from 17.00 - to 19.30. All members of the community are welcome.

As part of Shropshire's Low Carbon Community project, business grants of up to 50% are being offered to small and medium sized businesses within the three pilot project areas, towards renewable technologies and energy efficiency measures. This will simultaneously reduce your utility bills and your carbon footprint.  Please contact Marches Energy Agency to book your free business energy efficiency audit or to find out if you are in the project area.

The funding areas are currently Ellesmere, Cleobury Mortimer, and the floodplain area to the south of Oswestry. Further funding may be available from April to provide for the majority of Shropshire's businesses.

The Low Carbon Communities project is run by Marches Energy Agency - www.lowcarboncommunities.org with funding and support from Advantage West Midlands, Shropshire County Council and the Rural Regeneration Zone.

For further information please contact Jeremy Thorp on 01743 277105 or email jeremy.thorp@mea.org.uk