Together against energy poverty

We will all have to compensate for the high energy costs. “That is good and necessary,” says Buurkracht director Roel Woudstra. “It helps to relieve the pain in the short term.” According to him, the only real structural solution is for people to make their homes more energy efficient. “And that only really works if you help them.”

Social issue number one

Energy poverty has quickly become the leading social issue. This even more emphasizes the need to accelerate the sustainability of homes. “Although the subject is central, in practice we see that implementation at the town hall often comes to a standstill due to a lot of consultation,” Woudstra notes. “In addition, there is still a certain reluctance to actively involve residents, although their input is essential. Without a well-considered plan that gives residents a say, an effective transition to sustainable energy cannot take place. And right now there is an opportunity, as the high energy prices encourage everyone to save money. As Buurkracht we support this.”

This is how you involve residents in a successful way

According to Buurkracht, these are the most important elements for a successful process:

• Procedural transparency:
  It is clear from the start how things will work, and everyone can participate.
• A streamlined turnaround time:
  The process should not take too long, otherwise residents and volunteers will lose interest.
• Tangible results:
  The process always results in concrete outcomes, such as neighborhood initiatives, a neighborhood plan or direct savings.

“These components are always present in our effective method,” says Roel. “Our independent position is an additional advantage, especially now that trust in government agencies is waning.”

Based on our independence, we form a connecting link between residents and the municipality.

Roel Woudstra – Director of Buurkracht