NEARLY 30 homes and businesses throughout the Forest district will be opening to the public next month in a scheme called Eco Open Homes. 

 

Organised by Transition Forest of Dean and Transition Newent, the weekend  will showcase what is possible in terms of energy efficiency in the home and renewable technology.

Visitors will be able to meet people who have already made changes which save on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.

A wide variety of renewable energy will be available to see such as Solar PV, Solar hot water and air source heat pumps for heating. 

Insulation techniques are also a major feature with homeowners installing cavity wall, external and internal insulation, proving that even hard-to-nsulate Forest stone cottages can be made energy efficient.

Some self sufficiency gardens will also be open at the same time.

Clare Knapman, one of the Transition members organising the project, says: "Eco Open Homes have been organised in a number of areas including Stroud and Bristol, but this is a first for the Forest of Dean. 

"It's a great chance for homeowners and businesses who've made changes to their homes to share their experience and hopefully inspire other local people to do the same."

In all 28 homes, businesses and gardens will be open on the weekend of September 10 and 11.  More information is available from the website http://www.forestecoopenhomes.org.uk">www.forestecoopenhomes.org.uk