HOME owners and housing professionals can see the benefit of retrofitting homes with energy efficiency measures.
The Green Doors initiative aims to bring homeowners and housing professionals together for educational tours and see energy efficiency measures in action.
Solihull Council are collaborating with Good Work Co-operative to bring this scheme to the borough, with funding for the scheme provided by Midlands Net Zero Hub.
Jane and Colin from Hampton-in-Arden will be the first to open their retrofitted home to small groups of people, with the first tour on October 24.
It is hoped firsthand experience shared by residents like Jane and Colin, will show visitors what they can expect from the process and all the benefits that come with it.
Councillor Mark Parker, cabinet member for Housing, said: “We are very enthusiastic to be partnering with the GoodWork Co-operative and Net Zero Action Hub to bring this scheme back to our borough.
“Whether its guidance on choosing and working with contractors, or talking to the organisers about where to begin when upgrading your home, Green Doors can teach us so much about how to make retrofit a positive, stress-free process.
“If you are unsure about installing a heat pump, solar panels, or making other upgrades to your home, these educational tours will show you how simple it can be to improve your wellbeing and home energy efficiency.”
Data suggests that over two thirds of homes in Solihull do not have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C or above, costing them extra every year.
Estimates from the Energy Saving Trust suggest that for a typical mid-terrace house, residents could save approximately £140 per year on their heating bill by taking energy efficiency measures.
Phil Beardmore, Good Work Co-operative spokesperson, said: “Green Doors aims to showcase energy efficient homes. It’s a unique opportunity to learn from residents who have made energy saving improvements to their homes, through the host’s own words, free from technical jargon. ”
To sign up for a tour and hear about future events, please visit the Green Doors website.
Jane and Colin’s home will be open from 1pm until 2:30pm.
There will be two more visits available on November 8 from 11am and 1pm.
Booking is essential as spaces are limited, but there will also be a webinar for those that cannot attend in person.
