Villagers have say in how they manage and consume energy in consumer test
The small village of Humshaugh in rural Northumberland is aiming to become the first carbon-neutral community in the county.
The Humshaugh Energy Local Management (HELM) initiative aims to trial the integration of as many local renewable energy sources, energy storage systems, EV chargers, heat pumps and smart microgrid technologies as possible on domestic and community properties.
Humshaugh in rural Northumberland
The aim is to reduce complete reliance on centralised utilities and improve local energy efficiency, and is part of a £14.5m, five-year-long flagship Community Distribution System Operation, funded by the energy markets regulator, Ofgem.
The energy trial involves tracking a home’s energy use for a year to find smarter ways to manage electricity and, over time, reduce costs.
The HELM project focuses on energy independence (advanced energy systems to reduce dependence on the national grid.), renewable integration (local use of renewables to cut carbon and boost self-sufficiency); community governance (resident involvement in shaping and managing local energy systems) and smart technology (using smart microgrids and energy storage to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and lower costs).
Humshaugh is one of only four localities in the Northern Powergrid area selected for the trial and was chosen because it was considered the ideal UK rural archetypal village in which to demonstrate a new, smarter energy community approach.
David Still
David Still, director of the Humshaugh Net Zero community group said:
“This is a great opportunity for our community to drive forward initiatives to deliver Net Zero by 2030.
With a significant number of low-carbon technology devices already installed throughout the village, and a 1 MW community solar farm with battery storage due to be built in 2026, the Humshaugh Net Zero group can see the potential of this new project.
Over the next year, we will have the chance to help shape the future of local energy supply.”
Jane Watson
Jane Watson, the innovation community engagement lead at Northern Powergrid, said:
“The goal is to create a sustainable, flexible energy ecosystem where energy use and production are balanced locally. The trial will further enhance Humshaugh’s local energy resilience, strengthen community independence and give the residents more control over their energy future.”
The project is being managed and delivered by partners Ricardo plc, alongside Humshaugh Net Zero CIC and Entrust Microgrid Ltd on behalf of Northern Powergrid.