Councils team up in campaign for cheaper heating

South Norfolk Council in partnership with Broadland Council’s Energy Efficiency team is holding a DIY Solar Water Heating Workshop.

Paul Bourgeois from Broadland’s Energy Efficiency team explained that the water heating solar panels are cost effective and efficient:

“As fossil fuel supplies deplete, we need to look for renewable sources of energy. Solar thermal technologies are proven to be cost effective and efficient ways to begin to be more energy efficient in your home.

“Commercially-fitted solar systems are available but prices vary considerably. Assembling and installing a system yourself can cost as little as £1,495 - in some cases a saving of more than 50%.

“Solar thermal systems use the light to heat water and typically a system will provide at least 50% of a home’s hot water demand. They do not rely on direct sunlight - diffuse or ambient light is sufficient.

“Installing the system does not make your boiler redundant - on the contrary the two can work together so in the winter, or when there is insufficient solar heated water the boiler takes over.”

Eleven households are attending the workshop, on June 26 and 27 at Costessey High School to learn how to assemble and install their own systems.

Mark Allen, Direct Services Manager at South Norfolk Council, an environmentalist who runs the recycling and waste management services – is a workshop “graduate” who installed his own solar water heating.

He said:

“I have had my four panels in place for solar water heating for just over a year and the system works brilliantly. In the summer months it’s at its best - and in the winter it warms up the boiler so your boiler does less work.

“And as well as saving money, I want to do my bit to reduce the emissions my home produces, helping to sustain the environment for future generations.

“I attended a workshop last year and could not have installed the panels without it. You learn everything you need to know from the experts. And just after the workshop, one sunny weekend last June, my friends and I put the panels into place.

“I would highly recommend water heating solar panels – they cost you less than a new boiler, save you more and you know you are doing your bit to help the environment.”

Subject to demand, more workshops are planned for late summer, autumn and next year. Workshops usually take 2 days, over a weekend. Full support is given after the workshop in case of queries or problems.

For more information contact Paul Bourgeois on 01603 430598 or paul.bourgeois@broadland.gov.uk

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