Eco-home developed in Bratton Fleming Village

12.03.2008 Bratton Fleming resident trials new heating system.

A pilot scheme introduced in rural village Bratton Fleming could tackle fuel poverty in areas with no mains gas supply.

Transform, in partnership with Healthier Homes North Devon and North Devon District Council, has supported work on a pilot project that aims to lead the way in showing how eco-friendly technology can be used to heat homes with low cost to the occupier.

In the past, Bratton Fleming resident Maureen Forster heated her home using only a single electric heater and a coal fire. Both means were inefficient to adequately heat her entire home and temperatures were often below the recommended temperature of 18 degrees celsius. Income levels created a barrier for Maureen to install and run electric central heating.

Maureen applied to the Decent Homes Grant Scheme and her property was selected to trial a potentially cost effective, energy efficient heating system.

Maureen now benefits from an air source heat pump system, which works by converting the energy of the outside air into heat through compression. This heat can then be used to heat water which in turn is pumped throughout the house via small pipes.

Maureen also benefits from solar panels which have been fitted into the roof of her home to help warm water for both heating and household use, further reducing domestic bills.

Funding for the trial project has come from Transform, DEFRA's Community Energy Efficiency Fund and North Devon District Council.

For further information or for free advice on energy efficient ways to keep your home warm, please contact Healthier Homes North Devon on 0800 512 012. Or contact the Transform Office on 01271 867131.