Community Democracy
We at Origin believe that people should be at the heart of the energy revolution and that communities should be the drivers for what is best in their own environment. That is why we return all profits to the community and help establish democratic governance through which decisions can be made. We can do this through a co-operative Industrial Provident Society (IPS).
When we are invited to establish community turbines a new IPS is made in which every household in the community is given one share certificate. This entitles them to participate in the democratic running of their turbines and to make decisions on how the profits can be invested. These can be substantial sums from upwards of £250 k per annum depending on the size of the community turbines. This represents a catalyst for major change in a community and a huge social capital for promoting a more healthy and just relationship between communities and their local environment.
With these levels of investment communities could:
- install district heating schemes,
- install micro solutions,
- addess fuel poverty,
- pursue local food issues,
- invest in new sustainable businesses,
- build new community buildings/houses,
- invest in training and skills.
