Ploughcroft has hosted a two-day educational event giving homeowners and businesses the opportunity to learn about the latest energy efficient home improvements used in two newly renovated Eco-Homes.
The heritage properties were open to visitors on January 23 & 24 after extensive renovation and insulation by Ploughcroft took the EPC rating for both houses from an ?F’ to a ?C’. They now provide two ?heritage’ dwellings, across three floors, with the extra benefits of modern energy efficiency measures including internal wall insulation and room-in-a-roof insulation. Ploughcroft says this approach will ensure the properties benefit from reduced energy bills while retaining their original charm.
The event was officially opened by the Mayor of Calderdale, Cllr Patricia Allen, in a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony, with Ploughcroft founder Chris Hopkins on hand to answer questions around home energy efficiency measures, and help educate the public about the Green Deal Home Improvement Fund.
Mayor Patricia Allen, said:
“I am honoured to have the opportunity to officially open these homes, which are a first of their kind for Yorkshire. Never before have two 100-year-old Yorkshire stone houses been insulated with such impressive energy savings; having reduced their Energy Performance Certificate ratings from an F to a C. The houses are really impressive and a great example of energy efficiency in Calderdale Valley.”
Visitors were able to tour the Eco-Houses and inspect the energy efficiency measures in place, with a representative from Celotex on hand to offer information and guidance on the types of insulation used in the properties.
Chris Hopkins said:
“The homes are a Yorkshire first, and through using revolutionary energy saving materials embedded into the fabric of the floors, walls and roofs of these historic buildings, we have cut the heating requirement by 66%, the equivalent to œ900 per year.
“The open day has enabled us to prove to the general public, councillors, MPs, schools and colleges that beyond any doubt we are at a huge turning point in energy efficiency; we are now able to deliver huge energy savings in old cold properties across the whole of the UK, making them more economically viable and sustainable.”
Commenting on the development, Amber Rudd, energy and climate change minister, said:
“These two energy efficient heritage homes provide the local community with a great example of what can be done to help save money on bills and stay warm this winter. I hope this showcase encourages even more people to get on board.”
