Local News: Local energy experts help residents save money and keep warm!

Over a couple of evenings last month, dozens of residents from Wendover and Stoke Mandeville took it upon themselves to find out the facts and figures behind two of the ‘in the news’ energy-efficiency technologies at local workshops run by Buckinghamshire Community Energy (BCE) and Climate Action Wendover (CLAW).

As well as an introduction to the world of solar panels and air source heat pumps (ASHP), those attending were also given information about heat loss in homes and tips on inexpensive effective ways to reduce draughts

Representatives from local companies Kimble Solar and Delta T Eco Heating Systems were on hand giving presentations and taking questions from residents about the solar and ASHP systems, as well as EV chargers, covering the costs – including what grants or discounts are available, installation requirements and what sort of savings could be achieved if they took the plunge. In fact, a local homeowner reported how he saves over £2,500 a year on energy and fuel by having a heat pump, battery and EVs.

Following this, BCE and CLAW members braved the weather to chat with passers-by at Wendover’s Saturday produce market. Of the day, Kirsty later said “We had some great conversations, particularly around different available technologies, and everyone enjoyed playing our ‘How much carbon do you use?’ tennis ball game.”

The BCE evening workshops are continuing across Buckinghamshire over the next few weeks and will be in Chesham (26 February), Whitchurch (6 March), Aston Clinton (13 March) and Ivinghoe & Pitstone (19 March). Tickets to attend are free and can be booked at: buckscommunityenergy.org/energy-saving-homes-workshops CLAW is also surveying locals to find out how people feel about efforts to protect our local environment including the role they would like local groups and authorities to play. Have your say by filling in a two-minute survey by visiting: www.climateactionwendover.org.