Fuel Poverty and Energy Officer

Background:

Building on the successes of the Energy Action for Rutland project that began in January 2012, CHANGE AGENTS UK have been awarded funding by The Ebico Trust and the Local Strategic Partnership (Rutland Together) to continue this exciting project for a further 9 months. Rising energy prices and cold temperatures are making it very difficult for many householders to stay warm and pay for their energy. To tackle this, funding has been gained to work directly with 250 householders, helping to reduce and manage their energy usage through improved energy efficiency, better use of heating controls and effective energy management. CHANGE AGENTS UK are seeking an enthusiastic and passionate change agent to help us deliver this high profile opportunity.

Objective:

Working closely with Rutland County Council, local stakeholders and organisations, this project aims to tackle fuel poverty across the small county of Rutland. To provide a measurable impact on the households visited, the cost saving measures identified to every householder should reduce energy bills by an average of at least 25%, whilst those measures implemented by residents should reduce bills by 10% or more. More widely, the communications campaign aims to raise the profile of energy issues and fuel poverty across the county.

Benefits To Graduate

This opportunity offers the successful applicant a chance to gain real life experience of delivering energy efficiency advice and guidance to householders through a range of activities that include energy audits, through face to face communication, and by developing and implementing a communications programme. The postholder will benefit from training by NEA to provide a City and Guilds qualification in Energy Awareness, and will be supported by a dedicated project manager. The opportunity is ideal for anyone looking to work with energy issues in a local authority or consultancy.

Employment Potential and Options Post Project Work

This opportunity is a fixed term contract for 9 months. The experience and training gained through the project will give the postholder an excellent insight into the growing sector and will ensure they are well placed to pursue future employment in the field of energy efficiency and, more widely, to deliver the Green Deal.

Outputs:

1. Conduct energy audits in 250 homes across Rutland and provide targeted and appropriate advice – sign posting to additional services where appropriate.
2. Support and expand a fuel poverty/energy hub bringing together local stakeholders and partners – to ensure a co-ordinated response to energy issues across the county.
3. Secure significant local media, press and community coverage of energy efficiency and fuel poverty issues.