Dear {usertag:name}

Having instigated the inaugural meeting of the Transition The Grove Energy Group on Sunday I’m taking it upon myself to report back for the benefit of those members who were unable to attend. This email is sent only to those who have previously expressed interest in this group and those who expressed their interest by attending the meeting.

As is usual with these get-togethers the discussion was informal and free-flowing. No formal agenda was set and the discussion followed the energy generated by the interests and passions of those attending. While the main focus was renewable energy the discussion also covered food community gardens health and other ‘Transition’ topics.

A potential ‘way forward’ idea developed as an opportunity to explore a collaboration project between Transition the Grove and Ferny Grove State High School. FGSHS is considering options for community engagement as they set about implementing their School Environmental Management Plan (SEMP).

If this project receives approval by the school community participation by Transition The Grove could take the form of organising and participating in a Renewable Energy Expo at the school.

No details have been discussed but this could be set within the context of the international Transition Towns Movement and one of the principal Transition ideas a community based Energy Descent Action Plan or Energy Transition Pathway.

A Renewable Energy Expo could provide educational forums and expert panel discussions to inform the community about their renewable energy options. It could help set up linkages between a ‘solar bulk buy’ group and potential suppliers. It could provide the impetus for community ‘carbon footprint reduction’ projects. Most importantly it would provide an opportunity for our young people to engage in building the future they want. The possibilities are exciting and limitless.

The meeting concluded with general agreement to hold monthly Energy Group meetings to continue to explore and develop this opportunity. The date of the next meeting has yet to be set but I’ll let you know as soon as possible.

Thanks to those who participated on Sunday. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.

Regards

John Tennock