News

09 February 2012

Green Technology Saves Rural Tenants Hundreds on Energy Bills

Satley Refurbishment

Homes in an isolated County Durham village have been given a complete energy overhaul, saving tenants hundreds of pounds a year and protecting the environment.

The properties in Satley , near Lanchester, were originally fitted with solid fuel heating systems which ran off coke, costing tenants up to £40 a week in winter.

Because there is no gas supply to the village, Derwentside Homes which owns the properties, has come up with an innovative and environmentally friendly alternative - fitting state-of-the-art air-source heat pumps along with solar and PV panels.

The measures have been welcomed by tenant Ann Armstrong. The 55-year-old has lived in her home for 22 years and said she can’t believe the difference the changes have made to her life.

She said: “The coke was very messy and dirty and had to be kept alight all the time so it was a lot of work.

“The new system is brilliant, I’ve never had anything like it before and it’s so nice knowing I can go out and the house will still be warm when I get back in. It’s changed my life.”

As well as the new heating system, Mrs Armstrong has also had a new kitchen and bathroom fitted, as well as new windows and doors, making the whole property much more energy efficient.

She said: “I was getting through three bags of coke a week in winter and between one and two a week in summer. Now I would estimate I am saving up to £20 a week.

“All of my neighbours have been in to have a look and see what a difference it has made – they’re very impressed.”

Derwentside Homes’ project surveyor Lynne Campbell said: “The types of solid fuel heating systems fitted in these properties are very inefficient, as well as being labour intensive, dirty and expensive.

“Satley is in a very rural area and not connected to the gas network. The air source heat pump and solar and PV panels provide a great alternative to gas.

“They are clean, cheap to run, better for the environment and easy to use and we’re really pleased that Mrs Armstrong is so thrilled with the difference.”

The Satley improvements are part of Derwentside Homes’ commitment to modernise and refurbish all of its properties, in order to meet and exceed the needs of its customers.


RESPECT - ASB Charter for Housing IN Business For Neighbourhoods Tenant Service Authority Homes and Communities Agency
Valid CSS!