01/03/2010
Press release
For immediate release
Sydenham Community Insulation Project
Local sustainability group Action 21 is running a scheme based in Sydenham to help the community save money and energy by insulating their homes.
Action 21’s Sydenham Community Insulation Project is helping to bring as many houses as possible up the government’s recommended 270mm of loft insulation, working in partnership with local charity Act on Energy.
The project aims to bridge the gap between local residents, landlords and the companies who do insulation. “There’s a lot of different information and advice out there, coming from different companies,” says Action 21’s Eleanor Perkins. “This project connects residents and landlords with local, impartial advice from Act on Energy.”
Many people now are starting to feel the pinch of rising fuel costs, even to the extent that this January, workers at a charity shop in Wales described how pensioners were buying up the cheap hardback books to burn as heating fuel. It’s getting more and more expensive to adequately heat homes. An opinion poll by the National Housing Survey revealed that more than 7 million households countrywide struggle to pay their fuel bills.
But with proper insulation, the cost of keeping a home at a proper temperature can be reduced. For full loft insulation to a depth of 270mm it can cost £250, but this can be fully repaid in less than 2 years from the savings on your energy bills. What’s more, people on benefits, over 70 or experiencing hardship could be entitled to free insulation.
The project was started by Action 21’s Energy Group and is funded by Scottish Power. It’s now being run by Action 21’s new interim energy manager, Sam Walby and is well on its way to achieving its target of 45 insulated homes. Sam Walby says about his vision: “I believe the future of energy to be demand reduction and energy efficiency, combined with small and large scale renewable projects.”
Action 21 has been working with homeowners and landlords in Sydenham. People in rented accommodation may still be able to take advantage of this scheme by asking their landlords to talk to Action 21. There are huge benefits for landlords and for homeowners, making properties easier to heat, reducing condensation and improving quality of life.
To find out how to insulate your home, call Action 21 on 01926 456067 or email sam@action21.co.uk.
Read more about the Sydenham Community Insulation Project.
Back to the press releases.