City will be hotbed for renewable energy drive

As Bournemouth International Centre prepares to host the south west's biggest renewable energy event tomorrow (Tuesday 18 June), it has been confirmed that more than 100 companies will be sharing their expertise with delegates.

The event will have four targeted renewable energy zones, designed to appeal to all types of delegates – from householders and communities to farmers, construction companies and business owners. Each zone will not only be packed with exhibitors that understand how renewables can help reduce bills and secure your energy future, but also have a programme of talks and seminars from specialists who'll be available to answer any questions that visitors may have.

Open to both the general public and to businesses from 10am-4pm, the day follows on from the first successful Renewable Energy Marketplace event in Exeter earlier in the year, which attracted more than 1,000 visitors.

"Bournemouth will be the place to discover more about renewable energy, and how it can help businesses, communities and individuals lower their bills, reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, and generate money," said Merlin Hyman, chief executive of not-for-profit Regen SW, which is running the conference in partnership with Bournemouth Borough Council and Mouchel.

"This the biggest event of its kind – not only in Dorset, but throughout the whole of the south west of England, and we'll have a whole host of experts that will be on hand to spread their knowledge and answer questions from delegates."

The event will include a high-level conference, live demonstrations of installations and technologies; and workshops that include expert surgeries.

Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Environment, from Bournemouth Borough Council said: "Bournemouth is committed to renewable energy and preventing climate change, and we fully support businesses in this area. We would like to encourage other businesses in Dorset and the wider area to reduce their energy bills, become more self sufficient and ultimately become more competitive. We see renewable energy as a huge growth area and are committed to supporting it."

Reduced rate tickets (if booked online) start at £12 to visit the exhibition and £66 to attend the exhibition and conference, though delegates can also turn up and pay on the day.

Anyone interested in finding out more or booking tickets online should visit www.renewableenergymarketplace.co.uk.