Residents invited to discover how retrofit can make their homes warmer and cheaper to run

Credit: Onclusive News

People across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire are being invited to discover how they can make homes warmer, greener and cheaper to run.

The East Midlands Festival of Retrofit takes place from October 26th to November 9th, with more than 20 events taking place across the region to showcase how energy-efficient improvements can make a difference to homes and communities.

Events will give residents the chance to find out more about retrofit, speak to experts and see practical examples of measures that can improve the comfort and energy efficiency of their homes.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “Everyone should be able to live in a warm, comfortable home that they can afford to heat, and we have an important role to play in helping each other access the information and support available.

“The East Midlands Festival of Retrofit is about bringing that support closer to people. I want to give residents the opportunity to see what works, ask questions and get trusted advice from organisations in their local area.

“From community organisations and housing providers to local businesses and councils, there is already a huge amount of knowledge and expertise across our region. Events like this are about sharing that out so that more people can benefit from warmer homes, lower energy bills and the opportunities that come with creating a more energy efficient East Midlands.”

The festival is being coordinated by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) with the support of fuel poverty charities, local authorities, housing providers, businesses, community organisations and education providers.

The programme will include expert talks, open homes, demonstrations and advice sessions. They are designed to help residents understand how retrofit can improve comfort, reduce energy use and make homes more affordable to heat.

Retrofit is about improving existing buildings to make them more energy efficient, comfortable and affordable to heat. Measures being showcased include insulation, solar panels and heat pumps, alongside advice on the different options available and how residents can take their next steps.

Sessions, which are taking place across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire and online, include:

• October 24th, 2-5pm: Crowd-sourced solar information drop-in – Mammoth Cinema, Nottingham;

• October 28th, 10am-4pm: Air Source Heat Pump demonstration drop-in – Southwell Racecourse;

• October 28th, 6.30-8pm: Whole House Retrofit Party – Arnold Library, Nottingham;

• October 31st: Dronfield Community Get2gether  – Dronfield Active.

For a full list of events and further information, including booking details, click here.