An on-going experiment: Towards sustainability
Key features of my house and lifestyle:
- 4.4KWp photovoltaic (PV) array provides around 75% of annual electricity
- Space heating is 100% from passive solar gain and locally sourced wood (no gas or oil boiler)
- Water heating is 100% from solar thermal tubes plus wood with occasional immersion heater top-up (100% electricity from on-site PV or via buy-in using a 'green' energy tariff)
- Double and triple glazing fitted throughout
- Cavity wall insulation plus some internal insulation on exterior walls
- Loft and sloping roof insulation to approximately double building regulations standard
- Day-to-day transportation via bicycle and train (we are proud to own no car)
- Substantial contributions to vegetable and fruit requirements from home garden and allotment