Green Homes Network: Beech Cottage

House type: modern timber-framed detached bungalow, 2009

Energy efficiency and renewable measures: Solar water heating system, ground source heat pump, solid wall insulation, A-rated appliances, energy saving lighting, recycling, composting. Bedrooms: 3. Occupants: 2

Construction: A detached modern timber- framed bungalow with a solar water heating system, ground source heat pump, and solid wall insulation.

Energy performance rating certificate: C

 

Margaret Carruthers and her husband James decided to install their renewable technology systems when they retired in order to save a bit of money, “we wanted to have lower running costs as we got older, this meant reducing the amount of energy we used and paid for.” Motivated by the financial potential James and Margaret installed a solar water heating system and a ground source heat pump to their modern three bedroom detached bungalow.

The Green Homes Network, a new Scottish Government initiative managed by the Energy Saving Trust, was launched last year. The network provides individuals with the unique opportunity to visit a local home that has a renewables system installed. On Saturday 29 September homes across Dumfriesshire will open their doors to visitors.

Visitors can find out first-hand how different renewables systems run in real homes and hear about actual costs and savings.

Full details of all homes are available at greenhomesopenday.org.uk or call your local Energy Saving Scotland advice centre on 0800 512 012 to find out more.

www.greenhomesopenday.org.uk