Dorset Greener Homes - 20th to 28th September

Dorset’s Greener Homes will open their doors for the fifth year across Dorset during the last two weekends of September. Communities across Dorset are set to benefit from this countywide event, as over 50 homes across Dorset take part in the annual Open Homes event to showcase greener and sustainable energy installed in their homes.

Many feature Solar Panels, Battery Storage, Air and Ground source heat pumps; others show low cost solutions, using natural materials which can be recycled at the end of the life of the building, and wildlife-friendly gardens. There are listed buildings which have installed insulation to the walls and roof and successfully battled with listing and planning regulations to create a warm home fit for the future. You can also visit some high-end projects, including Athelhampton House, a Tudor manor which has achieved zero carbon status. There are over 10 featured homes that can be viewed in Dorchester, Weymouth and surrounding areas.

This free event has proven to be a great help to those interested in making their homes more sustainable and greener, saving money on fuel bills and making their homes cosier. Here the homeowners give impartial advice to visitors, sharing their experience of the installation processes, costs and healthy payback times on investment.

How noisy is a heat pump? How can I improve the insulation of my listed building? Are solar panels really worth it? How do I find a reputable installer? Visitors have found practical answers to these and many other questions. Event Dates are the 20th & 21st and 27th & 28th September - most homes are open for one or two of these days and may require prior booking.

Booking details and opening times can be found on www.dorsetgreenerhomes.org .

The website also features mini-films of some of the homes. Many homes are also open outside of the event dates all year round by appointment.

This event is one of Dorset Climate Action Network’s (DorsetCAN’s) main projects as it continues to offer residents of Dorset an opportunity to learn more about greener energy solutions. Learn more about their work at www.dorsetcan.org