A pioneering agreement to create more sustainable communities - improving energy efficiency and working to combat climate change across Exeter, East Devon and the whole of Devon county - has been signed at a landmark ceremony.

Exeter City Council, East Devon District Council and Devon County Council have formed a Low Carbon Task Force, together with energy company E.ON, to improve the energy efficiency of homes and to use renewable power sources to drive down residents' fuel bills and cut carbon emissions.

The task force will be made up of a range of organisations in the Growth Point area, including Exeter Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which have a major part to play in the region's future, promoting technical innovation and low carbon solutions in housing, business, transport, jobs and education.

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The key to success will be promoting new skills and creating "green" jobs on projects such as large-scale solar power and district heating schemes.

Leader of Exeter City Council Councillor Pete Edwards, Councillor Paul Diviani from East Devon District Council, and County Councillor Will Mumford signed the partnership agreement along with Michael Woodhead, Managing Director of E.ON's Sustainable Energy business.

Exeter City Councillor Pete Edwards said: "We are delighted that such a major player as E.ON has come forward to show its confidence and commitment to the area."

Councillor Paul Diviani Chair of East Devon District Council's Development Management Committee added: "The scheme will create opportunities for local suppliers and help make the city, East Devon and the wider county greener and attractive to businesses."

Michael Woodhead said: "Part of what we're doing here is about helping people take control of their energy use and lower their bills - we call that being energy fit.

"But there's a bigger picture as well; reducing the impact we have on the environment, and everyone - councils, communities and companies - has a part to play if we are to do that.

"Nobody knows a community better than the people who live and work there. If we can work together to build energy efficiency into our everyday lives - our homes and businesses, how we travel, how we shop - then we can really start to make a difference."

(CD/GK)