The Isles of Scilly Community Venture has received legal support from UK law firm Stephens Scown on the Smart Islands programme that aims to reduce the carbon footprints and energy bills of locals.
The programme aims to reduce bills by 20% by 2020 and meet 40% of the isles’ energy demand through renewables by 2025.
It includes delivery of a new community energy ‘market’ – offering residents the chance to buy locally-generated renewable energy from an additional licensed supplier.
Stephens Scown provided guidance on the legal framework behind the Community Venture and associated agreements.
The project also involves installation of energy-saving and renewable technologies, including solar panels, for which Stephens Scown has provided template leases for solar installations and guidance on the transfer of PV assets.
The law firm also provided legal guidance on tariff contracts, power purchase agreements and data protection.
The Smart Islands programme is managed by a partnership of The Duchy of Cornwall, The Council of the Isles of Scilly, Tresco Estate, Hitachi Europe and the Islands’ Partnership.
It also aims to achieve 40% of vehicles as low carbon or electric and to educate young people about opportunities in science, technology, engineering and maths.
Smart Energy Islands led by Hitachi Europe is the first project in the programme, receiving £8m of funding from the European Regional Development Fund.
Stephens Scown partner and head of energy Sonya Bedford (pictured) said: “We are very proud that the Isles of Scilly Community Venture team recognised Stephens Scown’s experience and capability in delivering community energy and renewables projects.
“We have appreciated the opportunity to apply our expertise on the Smart Islands programme, to help improve efficiencies and reduce carbon footprints and energy bills for residents of the Isles of Scilly.”
Isles of Scilly Community Venture general manager Jim Wrigley said: “Stephens Scown’s expertise has been second to none in assisting the Community Venture in its first year of operation as a Community Interest Company on the Isles of Scilly.
“Most impressive has been their knowledge of the energy sector and their ability to tailor this perfectly to the context of community energy.”