Retrofit 'festival' to advise homeowners on energy

A sustainability "festival" in Gloucestershire that gives homeowners advice on retrofitting their homes to save both energy and cash is to take place again next month.

The Future Fit Homes event in Cheltenham will bring together experts and installers on measures such as solar panels, insulation, heat pumps, rainwater collection and double glazing.

It is being hosted by environmental organisation Planet Cheltenham and volunteer group From the Ground Up on 8 February.

Iain Dobie, of Cheltenham Borough Council, said boosting energy efficiency was one of the best ways "we can help both our wallets and the planet".

The UK's housing stock is among the worst in Europe for energy efficiency, according to research published by think tank the Institute for Government in 2022.

As well as new technology, Future Fit Homes will offer information on grants available to help cover the cost of retrofitting, the practice of making changes to an existing building to improve energy efficiency.

The Severn Wye Energy Agency, an energy charity working to tackle fuel poverty in Wales and the English border counties, will also be offering guidance on finance.

There will be multiple sessions on different approaches to improving energy efficiency and minimising a home's environmental impact in the long term.

Raechel Kelly, project lead at Planet Cheltenham, said: "The challenge of updating our housing in the UK is huge, and no-one should be facing a cold home with soaring bills.

"Our event looks to empower the community with the solutions to tackle the problem directly."

Mr Dobie, who is the council's cabinet member for climate emergency, said: "Getting involved in making our homes more energy efficient is one of the most impactful ways we can help both our wallets and the planet."

The festival has previously attracted more than 1500 residents from across Cheltenham "to learn, be empowered and take action to live more sustainably", the council said.

The event will be held at St Philip and St James Church in Leckhampton from 10:00 GMT.

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