An Excellent Event
Our drop-in afternoon on Saturday was buzzing!
There was real community feeling as people mingled, checked out our smart-home tech displays, discussed solar diverters with Gwent Energy CIC, found out about energy-saving measures and grants with Severn Wye and Evolve Home Energy Solutions, tried out thermal imaging cameras with Forest of Dean District Council (who have a free loan scheme running), and chatted with locals who have recently had cavity-wall insulation and solar PV installed.
Our home-tech stand had smart-plugs displaying just how much energy LED bulbs can save, smart plugs that connect to a mobile app, infra-red thermometers, a portable induction hob (with magnets to test if older pans would work), a thermal kettle, and a slow-cooker. To keep us cosy we had an sample electric fleece throw, an electric pet-mat for furry friends, plus a selection of pre-loved curtains from Upcycle in Chepstow, with example tension poles for easy hanging (no drilling!).
Shower-timers and radiator keys were popular, and heat-pumps were also a hot topic! Did you know you can visit a heat pump?
All this was topped off by tea and a range of delicious cakes, including vegan and gluten free options, from Isabel's Bakehouse.
People came from all over the Forest of Dean; Newent, Longhope, Ruradean, Cindeford, Newnham, Parkend, Coleford, Broadwell, Yorkley, Bream, Sling, Lydney, and Chepstow.
Visitors really appreciated access to unbiased advice and the opportunity to talk to others who have had a similar experience. Many thanks to our lovely stall-holders and to our Forest Community Energy volunteer team who put it all together!
Here are some photos of the day:
