Event is chance for city to lead the drive in growth industry

Bournemouth will next month host the south of England's biggest renewable energy event - the Renewable Energy Marketplace - opening the doors for the town to be seen as a trailblazer in the rapidly developing industry.

Taking place at the Bournemouth International Centre on 18 June, the exhibition and conference, which is open to both the general public and to businesses, will see more than 90 of the country's leading renewable energy companies - from Dorset and further afield - sharing their expertise with visitors. It will also include high-level speeches from the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC), leading policy makers, financiers and practitioners.

"Renewable energy is the ideal way for organisations and individuals to lower their bills, reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, and generate much-needed additional revenue," said Merlin Hyman, chief executive of not-for-profit Regen SW, which is running the conference in conjunction with Bournemouth Borough Council and in partnership with Mouchel.

"Bournemouth has the opportunity to play a leading role in the development of the renewable energy sector," added Merlin. "We're pleased to be working closely with Bournemouth Borough Council to showcase the renewable energy sector".

In addition to the exhibition, the event will include a high-level conference where industry experts will deliver talks on important energy initiatives and policy including the Renewable Heat Incentive, Feed-in Tariffs and the Green Deal. The event will also show how businesses can reduce their energy costs. Visitors will get the opportunity to see live demonstrations of installations and technologies; visit zones including workshops, surgeries with experts and practical help; and find out everything they need to know to help get renewable energy projects off the ground.

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.

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