Category: Energy Advice

Stoke Climsland Carbon Zero Homes

Cosy Nights

Over 40 people met at the Old School on 6th February to discuss improving domestic heating efficiency, regardless of boiler type, and the ‘truth and myth’ about heat-pumps. This meeting was arranged in response to interest on this topic from across the Parish, becoming a legacy action from the Carbon Zero Homes Project which was led by the Parish Council, and which was funded by a grant from the Community Levelling Up Programme.

The first speaker was James Fortune from local renewable energy & retrofit specialists, Dartmoor Energy. To everyone’s surprise, James explained that the first heat-pump technology was invented in 1834 in the form of a refrigerator compressor and the first UK installation of a heat generating system was as far back as 1945.
James went on to explain the efficiency advantages and science behind heat-pumps and the different forms they take. James concluded with tips on achieving a good installation and how to use it effectively. 

You can find James’ presentation here

Andy Nevill followed with a specific case study of his own installation – an air-source heat-pump installed 2 years ago into a 19th century miner’s cottage. The biggest challenge was fitting under-floor-heating, but heat pump systems can operate in radiator only dwellings. Motivations were to achieve a healthy living environment, to save money and to reduce household emissions. They have measured a 90% reduction in energy use, a 96% reduction in emissions and a 64% reduction in energy costs and now have a healthier lived in environment.

You can find Andy’s presentation here

Jennie Stopford of Cornwall Council gave the audience the big picture of the Council’s program of decarbonising which stretches to 2045 when the objective, for example, is to have 30-50% of houses fitted with photo-voltaic solar panels. With regards to heat-pumps, Cornwall is leading all other counties in the UK with more than 5% of dwellings now fitted with one.

You can find Jenny’s presentation here

Kate Royston from Tamar Energy Community explained how they can support Parish households, including a free visit by one of their retrofit energy advisors to explain all the technical and funding options available, including grants and loans.

You can find Kate’s presentation here

Also exhibiting and taking part in a Q&A session chaired by Richard Davies, were Clare Moody from Community Energy Plus, Jack Morewood from University of Plymouth and Rob Tapson from Eco NRG.
Questions ranged from smart-meters, radiator and/or under floor heating combinations to on-going heatpump servicing.

Amongst the delegates were residents who already have heat-pumps installed, including one Luckett resident who had a system installed as far back as 2010. A bit like speed-dating, residents who had systems installed were matched with those considering if a heat-pump is right for them!

A huge thank you to Edah and her team of community volunteers who gave up their valuable time to refresh and support this meeting, including an amazing spread of canapes.

Scan the QR code here to access a handout from the meeting with contains lots of useful information, contact details and a link to the presentations.

Stay Cosy!

Thermal Imaging Camera Scheme

West Devon Borough Council (WDBC) working in partnership with Tamar Energy Community (TEC) is offering its communities the chance to use thermal imaging cameras to analyse homes across West Devon and see how they could be more energy efficient. 

As part of WDBC’s commitment to help reduce carbon emissions across West Devon, and help people improve the energy efficiencies of their homes, four thermal imaging cameras are available for use on a free to borrow basis for Town and Parish Councils or Community Groups.

 

The ‘point and shoot’ camera can provide you with a thermal image of a home or building. The image can then be used to identify potential improvements, such as requirements for insulation and draught proofing within your home to improve your energy efficiency, as well as to reduce heat loss and fuel bills.

WDBC will be providing an opportunity for up to 8 communities to use the council’s thermal imaging cameras (TICs) between 6 December and 31 March.

Kate Royston, Tamar Energy Community Director and Energy Advisor, said: “We’re delighted to be working with West Devon Borough Council on this project, and are looking forward to helping communities across West Devon understand what can be done to help make homes cosy, efficient and future-ready.

“Retrofitting a property is a journey. Using a thermal imaging camera is just one diagnostic tool we can use to look at a home and find where we can make efficiencies; we’re always happy to help anyone in West Devon and the Tamar Valley take the first step in that journey.”

The Council is looking to support an “energy champion” in the communities that take part, who will lead on using a thermal imaging camera in their town, village or area.

Tamar Energy Community will provide each community that signs up with an introductory talk to the community about retrofitting, highlighting important things to consider; and a follow up clinic to discuss and share results as a community.

To find out if you meet the criteria click here and you can apply today, or you can check out the article written by the BBC here.

Tamar Energy Fest – Sat Nov 9th

Tamar Energy Fest – Sat Nov 9th

By Kate Royston

Tamar Energy Community (TEC) has been hosting the annual Tamar Energy Fest since 2012, and this year we look forward to welcoming you to Butchers’ Hall in Tavistock on Saturday 9th November from 10:00 until 15:00. Do pop in and see us!

Our theme this year is “Cosy, Efficient, and Future-Ready”. We’re focused on supporting you with practical strategies for retrofitting homes to enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and resilience against rising energy costs and climate change.

With free entry, there’s plenty to interest you if you’re concerned about the climate and biodiversity emergency, carbon reduction, and energy efficiency—or simply looking to lower your bills.

Free, impartial advice will be available from our knowledgeable experts and exhibitors on retrofitting, energy management and more. You’ll also find information stalls, and interactive displays offering insights into effective strategies for reducing energy consumption and making informed home improvement decisions.

Our exhibitors will include Dartmoor Energy, NEA (National Energy Action), South West Water, Bramhill Builders, Fell Partnership, Kensa Heat Pumps and Metalectrique. We’re also being joined by Devon Wildlife Trust, Tavy Rail, Tamar Valley National Landscape, Tavistock Library and Transition Tavistock.

Whether you’re interested in implementing small changes or undertaking larger projects, Tamar Energy Fest provides a valuable opportunity to learn and connect with others committed to a sustainable future.

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday. Find out more here.

Retrofit Made Easy

Make Your Home Cosy, Efficient, and Future Ready

Retrofitting your home is more than just saving energy. It’s about creating a space that’s comfortable, healthy and kind to your wallet and the planet.

Retrofit - what does it mean?

Retrofitting – its about doing things to improve existing homes and buildings to make them as energy efficient as possible.

  • Boost comfort: Say goodbye to draughts, damp and cold spots. Enjoy a comfortable home all year round.
  • Cut energy bills: Lower your energy use and watch your bills shrink.
  • Increase value: Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers and renters.
  • Future-proof your home: Adapt to changing environmental standards and live more sustainably.
  • Improve health: Better ventilation and temperature control mean a healthier living environment for you and your family.

 

Confused about where to start with energy-efficient home improvements? We’re here to help!

Step one: Book your free home visit and meet your local retrofit advisor to better understand your home’s needs.

Step two: Receive free, expert information provided for you on your retrofit options, funding and grants.

Step three: Discuss next steps which may include a more detailed technical survey and plan as appropriate. Between now and the end of March 2025 we’re able to offer generous subsidies on the usual price (subject to availability!)

 

Our expert advisers will help you chart the best course for your home’s energy future.

You can download our Retrofit brochure here.

 

If You Have Any Questions

Contact Us

A good place to start is to watch the animation from the Stoke Climsland Carbon Zero Homes project. You can find it here: https://www.stokeclimslandparishcouncil.org/stoke-climsland-carbon-zero-homes-project-animation/.

We hope you enjoy it.

Another valuable resource is the ‘Devon Retrofit Guide’. You can find it here: https://www.energysavingdevon.org.uk/document/devon-retrofit-guide/

As part of our Autumn programme in 2025 we have two events you may find of interest. Come along and see us:

Tamar Energy Fest

  • Sat. Nov 22th 2025 from 10:00 to 15:00
  • Butcher’s Hall – Tavistock

Okehampton Energy Fest

  • Date to be announced from 10:00 to 15:00
  • Charter Hall – Okehampton

Spray foam insulation scam warning

By Kate Royston

Our energy advice team would like to remind you about the spray foam insulation scam warning put out by Devon Trading Standards earlier in the year.

You can read the story here.

Some of the key points from the article are here:

“Customers are often cold called and subject to hard sale techniques to persuade them to agree to this insulation. Guarantees are often offered which are only as good as the longevity of the company providing them.

While spray foam insulation can be an effective way to improve energy efficiency, it is important to ensure that it is applied by trained professionals and is suitable for the property concerned. Adequate ventilation in lofts and roof spaces is required.    

Spray foam can lead to problems when the homeowner wants to sell, re-mortgage or release equity from their property so before any work is done it’s important to check with your mortgage provider.

Some lenders may not provide a mortgage or an equity release and if you sell your property some surveyors will advise that it is removed.

Traditional glass fibre* insulation in lofts is still the most widely used insulation in new houses, is accepted by Local Authority building regulations and provided a roof is properly ventilated will cause no issues. There have been no studies to show glass fibre quilts cause mould.”

The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors has produced a consumer guide for spray foam.  

Roll of loft insulation

*Traditional rolls of loft insulation are available in a number of different materials including glass fibre wool, mineral wool, recycled plastic and sheep’s wool.

Insulating a loft at the rafters can be done very cost effectively. Depending on the size of the loft and whether you DIY or get someone in, the cost may range from say £200-£1500.

There are also schemes available today which can insulate your loft for free depending on your EPC and Council Tax Band and in some cases your household income.

If you have any questions or concerns about loft insulation, or to have a chat about it, please get in touch with us (Tamar Energy Community) on 0800-233-5414 or via our enquiry form here.

Major Funding Win for Home Retrofit Advice Services

By Kate Royston

South West consortium one of six successful bids for new government funding

Plymouth Energy Community and partners of the Far South West Retrofit Consortium (FSWRC), including Tamar Energy Community (TEC) are about to embark on an ambitious £1.4m project to design and test new methods of retrofit advice delivery across the South West region.

The consortium comprises six community energy organisations in partnership with Plymouth City Council and Devon County Council.

The £1.4m grant for this new project comes from the Local Energy Advice Demonstrator programme, which is led by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero working in partnership with the South West Net Zero Hub. This project is one of six funded across the South West and will run for two years.

The project will drive engagement with housing retrofit to improve energy efficiency resulting in lower bills, reduced emissions and improved occupant health and wellbeing. Three population groups have been identified that represent a broad spectrum of homeowners across the region who are either often overlooked or seldom reached by the current advice provision available. These are the digitally excluded, low-income households and owners of traditionally built properties.

TEC Director and Project lead, Kate Royston said; “TEC is excited to be part of this new project working with this experienced and established consortia, together with our partners at Dartmoor Energy, and our sister community energy organisation in the South Hams, South Dartmoor Community Energy. The project will provide much needed resource to enable us to explore and refine new approaches to delivering in-person advice and engaging communities in housing retrofit, this is something that we don’t have the capacity to undertake under normal circumstances.”

Central to this project will be a focus on how best to conduct in-person retrofit advice visits in people’s homes, with high quality resources, advisor training and follow on support services all contributing to the solution. An iterative design and testing cycle will explore innovations throughout the customer journey. At the end of the project  the findings will be shared with other retrofit service providers across the UK.

Jon Rattenbury, South West Net Zero Hub Programme Manager, said; “We are pleased to be able to award this funding on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to six south west based groups that have shown a real appetite to support their communities to take action to save carbon and improve the energy efficiency of their homes. We look forward to working with these groups to share the learning from the pilot projects on providing tailored advice and developing the provision of advice to support as many people as possible.”

Justin Bear, PEC’s Project Lead for the Conssortium added; “This work is incredibly important as it addresses a number of important societal challenges – reducing regional emissions of greenhouse gases, improving living standards and occupant health and reducing bills at a time when many are struggling with the rise in the cost of living.”

Over the course of the project the consortium will aim to provide in-person advice to approximately 13,000 people from across Devon and Cornwall.

Dress smart, not pretty!

By Kate Royston

This current cold spell has been named the ‘Troll from Trondheim’; and on Radio 4 on Sunday a resident of Trondheim in Norway explained that the way to beat the chill is to ‘dress smart, not pretty’ to help keep you warm and cosy.

Dressing for the season was the norm before widespread adoption of central heating systems within homes. This is a practice which many seem to have forgotten or consider unnecessary.

It’s common practice in cold outdoor environments to ‘layer up’, and this is equally as important indoors as outdoors, particularly when it is very cold outside.

You may be surprised at how much more comfortable you feel with some additional layers.

Layering up your clothes

Start with thermal underwear: a long-sleeved thermal top and thermal leggings or long johns.

For your top half, ideally next a rollneck jumper or similar to keep the neck area cosy, followed by a jumper/hoody, then ideally a sleeveless vest top/gilet (zipped is good) to keep the body core extra warm. You can top off with a fleece jacket.

For your bottom half a pair of warm trousers (fleece is excellent); and if you’re still chilly, add an additional pair of trousers.

Feet, hands and head

Keep your feet, hands and head warm as well as your core.

Thick thermal socks (e.g. heat warmers) on top of your normal socks work well; and a pair of fingerless gloves will keep your hands warm whilst still enabling you to use them.

Top off with a warm hat like a beanie.

If you don’t have enough warm clothes or you’re concerned about keeping warm enough please get in touch with us at Tamar Energy Community on 0800-233-5414 or email hello@tamarenergycommunity.com.

If you’re warm enough and not wearing a jumper indoors, we suggest you help the power grid which is struggling to meet demand at the moment, and your pocket, by turning it down and adding some layers!

You can download this article here

LEDs … Festive and day-to-day lighting

By Kate Royston

LED bulbs are far less expensive to run than the more traditional incandescent (or tungsten) and halogen alternatives.

As an example, a traditional 60w incandescent bulb used for an hour and a half per day over a year would cost £11.18p based on the energy price guarantee price of 34p per unit.

An equivalent LED bulb (around 8.5 watts) would cost £1.58 per year to run and is likely to cost £2.50 or less to buy.

If you replace your old incandescent bulb with an LED you’ll save approximately £8.50 in your first year.

Not sure what sort of bulbs you have?

LED bulbs do not get hot. They put more or less all the energy into generating light.

If you have light bulbs which are hot to the touch (don’t touch them directly as you might get burnt, but put your hand close to them) then they are not LEDs.

A rule of thumb is that a halogen or incandescent bulb is likely to cost around 10 times the cost of an LED, and you can recoup the cost within the first year.

Festive lighting

Christmas is a time of year when many people are lighting their homes with Christmas tree lights; and some of us may have displays outside.

Calculations made by Wizer Energy suggest that households that include LED Christmas lights (25 metres of LEDs), outdoor LED rope lights and an LED rope light decoration outside could add £15.70 a month to your electricity bill this winter assuming they are on for 8 hours a day; which would increase to £49.05 if your lights are incandescent rather than LED.

If you’re concerned about managing your energy bills this winter, you may want to consider how much you invest in your festive lighting.

Lighting your tree with 25 metres of LEDs may only cost you 50p for the month of December. The external lights will cost more.

Wizer Energy calculations in more detail

Christmas Tree Lights – The Difference between LED & Incandescent

Most UK households will use 2 sets of LED fairy lights to brighten up their tree/trees around the house, which equates to around 25 metres of length; If you leave the lights on between 4pm-12am you can expect to pay around £0.0163 per day for the luxury, that works out at around 50p for the entire month of December. 

However, the older incandescent bulbs are far more expensive. Yes they may look nice, but a string of lights with 100 bulbs will consume roughly 40 watts, which would cost you £0.1088 per day, or £3.37 per month, an increase of £2.87!

“Generally speaking you’ll see the older incandescent bulbs in the homes with an older age profile, they may not even be aware that these lights are costing them a fortune as they’ve presumably had them for quite some time. If you’re popping in to visit the Grandparents in the next few weeks it might be time to swap out the old lights for some LEDs.”

Outdoor Rope Lights

Lining the outside of your house with rope lights is a trend that has only grown in popularity over the past 10-15 years and it should be no surprise that these lights are some of the biggest energy consumers. LED rope lights usually consume around 1 watt per foot, so a 50 metre length of rope light that’s left on for 8 hours a day is going to cost you £0.4461, or £13.82 for the month of December. 

Again, the incandescent bulbs are far more expensive – the same length of lighting nearly triples the price, as these bulbs would use around 3 watts per foot, working out at £1.34 per day or £41.54 for the month.

Outdoor Decorations

Outdoor rope light decorations are another common sight across the country, take this Reindeer & Sleigh decoration from the Range for example –

“These decorations can be a little bit deceptive as they are relatively inexpensive, not too big and look great in front of the house – however they utilise LED rope lights too, this one features around 5m of rope light, which means it’ll cost you £0.04 to run for 8 hours, or around £1.38 for the month” 

Calculations

– Monthly Cost –

 LEDS – 25 metres of fairy lights (£0.50) + 50 metre of outdoor rope light (£13.82) + 1 Outdoor Decoration (£1.38) = £15.70

INCANDESCENT BULBS – 100 bulbs @ 40 w (£3.37) + 50m of rope light, 3w per foot (£41.54) + 1 Outdoor Decoration (£4.14) = £49.05

 “Our advice – If you have any older, incandescent style bulbs left, get rid of them! They’re costing you a fortune in comparison to the LED equivalents.”

More about our Exhibitors

New Generation Energy – Renewable Energy Solutions

Designing, supplying, installing and maintaining bespoke renewable energy systems for the past nine years with an emphasis on customer satisfaction and an ethos of ongoing support and maintenance for our current and future client base.

Established in 2007 by Andrew Metcalf and based in the South West we have installed hundreds of renewable systems, from small photovoltaic arrays to large commercial biomass boilers and are MCS accredited for all our technologies.

Lendology cic – Lending decisions for people, by people

Lendology CIC disrupt traditional lending with our decisions powered by partnerships and people, enriching homes, and lives through affordable finance. 

Working in partnership with West Devon Borough Council, we lend council funds to homeowners for home repairs, improvements, renewable energy measures and to improve the energy efficiency of homes. 

Unlike other mainstream lenders, Lendology doesn’t use algorithms or credit scores. People make lending decisions for people.  They believe that everyone should have access to a home that is safe, warm, and suitable for their individual needs and works across the community to enable this, reduce fuel poverty and establish the link between health and homes.  If you are worried about the rising cost of energy, we recommend taking action now to ensure your central heating is working and that your home is as energy efficient as possible.

Lendology will be available until 14:00 on Sat. 12th November.

Lovely Savings – A Utility Warehouse Partner

Lovely Savings, a Discount Club helping families and small businesses save money on their essentials

Devon Wildlife Trust – Protecting wildlife for the future

Devon Wildlife Trust logo

Established over fifty years ago by a small group of volunteers, Devon Wildlife Trust is the only charity that exists to protect all wildlife in Devon and to safeguard Devon’s unique natural environment.

NEA – National Energy Action – Action for Warm Homes

From October, with the government’s price freeze in effect, National Energy Action predicts 6.7 million UK households will be in fuel poverty. It means they cannot afford to live in a warm, dry  and safe home. National Energy Action is the national charity working to end fuel poverty in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Find out more about the challenge we face, the difference we make, and the difference you can make.

Transition Tavistock – Working towards a sustainable future for Tavistock and District

Local travel as it could be?

Our meetings share views on how easy it is to use sustainable transport around the Tavistock area and to nearby towns – and ideas on how it could be better and more inclusive. Frequent, well-connected public transport in all directions; easy to walk, use a wheelchair or cycle to reach facilities; leading rather than lagging in the shift to low emission vehicles for both personal and business travel? What changes would you make?

We’re keen to involve individuals, groups and businesses who want to shape this vision for mobility, influence decisions and encourage low-carbon travel habits. Whether your concern is potholed pavements or diesel fumes, cycle safety or bus routes, get in touch on travel@transitiontavistock.org.uk.

Tavistock Neighbourhood Plan

Have your say on the future of the parish of Tavistock

A Neighbourhood Development Plan gives the residents of Tavistock and surrounding areas a say on how the community develops, how land will be used and how we can protect what’s important to us. We can address topics like affordable housing, community infrastructure, protecting green spaces and more.

Helping others through the energy crisis

By Kate Royston

Energy conversations

The energy crisis has encouraged more of us to think about energy and our usage, and the impact on our communities, businesses, and energy security in general. This growing interest is welcomed.

We encourage conversations amongst friends, family, neighbours and within the community to share knowledge and understanding; and importantly, as a way of checking in with others.

Concern for others

If you have concerns for someone within your community or close circle you can, with their permission, refer them to Tamar Energy Community (TEC) for an energy advice call or home visit.

Triggers for concern may include:

  • a cold, draughty home; in a poor state of repair; damp and mould
  • a householder struggling to afford daily essentials; living in one room to avoid heating the house; using room heaters instead of central heating

It can make a real difference to someone’s life if help can be offered and is welcomed.

Getting more involved

You may have an interest in volunteering and getting more involved in helping local people, including spreading the word. Support with social media, events and data management welcomed.

We can also offer community talks/drop-ins; or you may be interested in becoming a community energy champion.

Donating to Energy Crisis Funds

If you’re in a position to comfortably manage the increase in Energy bills this Winter, you may consider opting to donate your Energy Bill rebate to those in need.

An option is a donation through National Energy Action (https://www.nea.org.uk/support-us/donate-the-rebate/ ).

If you would like your payment to go directly to residents of West Devon, you could donate to TEC’s crisis fund. This support is offered to the most vulnerable local residents and ensures that 100% of the donation goes directly to support people who are genuinely struggling. Find out more here: https://tamarenergycommunity.com/get-involved/donate/

To find out more or get in touch call in to see us at the Tamar Energy Fest on Nov 12th (Butchers’ Hall: 10:00-15:00).