Project Case Studies

Tapping into the Sun!

---

To save energy and the environment is a high priority for one household in Shrewsbury and before Eco n'Home, they had already maximised the insulation in their loft, purchased 'A' rated appliances, and installed low energy lamps in all possible fittings. As the property was constructed in around 1900, sited in a Conservation Area, and of a single brick skin, it was difficult to address the efficiency of walls and windows. In addition, household members always cycle or walk for local journeys instead of using their one car - however they hope to replace this soon with a more efficient model.

An audit by Marches Energy Agency in February 2007 identified the central heating system boiler to have the greatest potential for energy and carbon savings. The boiler is fired by natural gas and as it was installed in 1990, it was only about 65% efficient. Eager to reduce their impact as much as possible, the household has now replaced the boiler with an efficient, condensing model and at the same time and after negotiations with the local planning department because of the historic location, installed a solar thermal system to provide hot water. There are two young children in the household and therefore the hot water demand is high, but since this work was completed, there has been little need to use gas for water heating.

More case studies >>