Swansea city centre has new information hub for local residents eager to cut fuel bills

COMMISSIONED by Swansea Council and run by the Environment Centre Swansea with the help of specialist partners, the Energy Awareness Hub aims to help households with free, accessible, and independent support.

Based in Nelson Street, close to the Quadrant Bus Station, the centre also plans to take the service on the road to communities around the city.

Andrea Lewis, the council’s joint deputy leader and cabinet member for climate change and service transformation, said:

“Rising energy costs, inflation, and the pandemic are among the factors squeezing family budgets.

“The council continues to help those living close to the breadline – and our energy hub is an important new resource for them and others who want to keep energy bills as low as possible and to keep their homes warm.

“Many Swansea households face an unprecedented energy crisis due to the rising prices, and we and our valued partners in this venture want to help.”

Rhian Corcoran, centre manager of Environment Centre Swansea, added:

“A lot of people are struggling to pay fuel bills; support is key to enable people to take action, so we’re delighted to bring a package of information to one central place, backed by a network of experts in order to help whoever needs it.

“This will include information to all on how to better insulate homes, switch energy providers, and access support on welfare rights.

“Anybody concerned about the costs of fuel to themselves or relatives can pop in and chat in confidence with our team”

The Environment Centre is a local community hub that’s inspired positive action for a greener and healthier future for more than 25 years

The Energy Awareness Hub opened today January 20 in a vacant shop unit between Gershwins Coffee House and Franco’s Cafe. This initiative is being funded by the council’s economic recovery fund and the Western Power Community Matters Fund.

The hub is open on Thursdays from noon-6pm, Fridays (10 am-4 pm), and Saturdays (9 am-3 pm).

It has specially trained staff from the Environment Centre and other organisations and is expected to remain open on a trial basis initially until the end of April.

As well as its energy information and support the hub sells eco-friendly refills including household products.

If its initial trial period proves useful to the public, consideration will then be given by the council and partners to extend its reach and scope to continue operating in the future.

Partners and supporters include the National Energy Agency, Warm Wales, The Welsh Government Warm Homes Nest Scheme, council departments, youth charity Swansea MAD, EON Energy, City Energy, and Yes Energy Solutions.