Green Homes Network: Lodge Wood Cottage

House type: 1800s detached house, extended in 2009

Energy efficiency and renewable measures: Solar water heating, ground source heat pump, wood burning stove, wall insulation, loft insulation, A-Rated appliances, Energy saving lighting, recycling, composting, Bedrooms: 3 Occupants: 2

Key features: 1800s detached home with a solar water heating system, Gas source heat pump, wood burning stove, wall insulation, and loft insulation.

Energy performance rating certificate: D

 

Living in the rural Dumfries countryside presented retired engineer Victor Dunlop and his wife Suzanne with an exciting opportunity. As their large detached house was not connected to the mains gas supply, Vic believed that installing a solar water heating system, a ground source heat pump and a wood burning stove would help them become more self-sufficient. The eco-conscious couple found the installation process simple, the solar panel took just one day of their on-going extension project “the installation process itself was not complicated – it just required someone with a lot of strength to lift the panels onto our roof!” explains Vic.

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