News from our partners: Climate conscious households urged to throw open their doors and inform others

News from our partners Marches Energy Agency

Energy-efficient households are being asked to lead by example and throw open their doors to people wanting to learn more this October (2023).

The Marches Energy Agency is asking for people who have already started making their homes more energy efficient to volunteer as ambassadors through the Green Doors scheme, which takes place over three weekends in October.

Households who have already carried out works are being asked to open their doors so that people can find out first-hand all the information they need about making their own homes more energy efficient and eco-friendly.

The event is being co-ordinated by the Marches Energy Agency, and participating homes are being mapped on the national network for low carbon open homes.

Tony Baker, project manager at MEA, said:-

“The need for energy efficiency improvements to homes is now greater than ever, with huge energy bills biting, inflation and interest rates hitting people’s pockets, and climate change breathing down our necks.

“Looking around a home which has already been retrofitted and talking to householders who have been on that journey, is absolutely invaluable in giving others the confidence and understanding they need, and that in a nutshell is what Green Doors is about.”

Ian Nellins, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for climate change, environment and transport, said:-

“Last year more than 20 households across the county very kindly opened their homes to display the latest green technology, including air source heat pumps, solar panels with battery storage, and smart controls.

“Their efforts are to be celebrated, not just for sharing their knowledge and experience, but also for opting to make these changes to their homes.

“Shropshire Council aims to achieve Net Zero by 2030, but our carbon output accounts for only one per cent of the county’s total, and it is people taking what may appear to be small steps in their day to day lives that are helping reduce the carbon output overall. Lots of small steps soon add up to make a big difference, and these households are helping inspire others.”

Green Doors takes place on Saturday 14 October, Sunday 15 October, Saturday 21 October, Sunday 22 October, Saturday 28 October and Sunday 29 October 2023, and homes will be open from 10am to 4pm. Volunteers are not expected to take part on all six days. For information on how to volunteer email Tony Baker at tony.baker@mea.org.uk or call 07942 370529.

More information on Green Doors can be found here and to find out more about Shropshire Council’s climate action visit our webpage.