Energy
Energy
It is now common knowledge that emissions from conventional energy production and consumption are not good for our environment and exacerbate climate change.
There are things we can all do to reduce our personal consumption and choose cleaner energy sources. It really is possible for us all to do our bit and it’s generally the case that if you save energy, you usually save money too. So that’s a win-win!
So what next?
A small group of volunteers are taking up the challenge to try and help Horsforth reduce its energy usage. HCA’s Energy Group want to support community groups and larger projects, as well as all Horsforth residents.
If you want to join us, or learn more about this, please get in touch via info@horsforthclimateaction.
SIMPLE Ideas for you to try
Small free things you can do in your home by changing your habits:
- take shorter showers
- turn off some lights, especially outside ones that don’t need to be on all night
- batch cook meals
- change your energy tariff/supplier
Reduce heating bills by:
- turning the heating down
- use timers and thermostats
- put on a jumper
- move about
- heat yourself, not the room – try a hot water bottle
Keeping cool in hot weather
- close curtains
- use foil on velux windows to reflect the heat back out
- enjoy the shade outdoors in the evening to cool you down
- ditch the duvet and use a cotton sheet instead
Low cost DIY ideas
- draught proofing
- use curtains and blinds
- low energy light bulbs
- timers
- radiator controls (TVRs)
Our Achievements and Ongoing Efforts
How do I run my heat pump?
Have you just become the owner of a heat pump and wondering how to best use it? Heat pumps generally use heat from outside to provide hot water to feed radiators or under-floor heating. This beginners guide explains some of the basics which will make you more...
Climate Conversations – Air Quality and Community Action
The first HCA "Climate Conversation" took place at St Margaret's Parish Centre on the evening of Thursday 20th February. The topic for discussion at our inaugural event was Air Quality and Community Action. Our two speakers were Dr Jim McQuaid, Associate Professor of...
Where does all your recycling (green bin) rubbish go?
A group of people from Horsforth recently had an interesting tour of HW Martin, this is the place where all our recycling from the Leeds green bins go to be sorted. Some points that came out of it were: Leeds recycles more types of materials than many cities, such as...
Horsforth Climate Action Energy Day
All things energy were up for discussion on 7th September - an afternoon of power saving ideas, hints, tips and practical solutions, ranging from simple ideas to full and serious retrofit options, including insulation, solar panels, heat pumps and home energy...
Introducing the HCA Thermal Imaging Camera Scheme: See Your Home in a New Light!
This Autumn 2024, Horsforth Climate Action is aiming to purchase a thermal imaging camera and is planning to launch an innovative way for you to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. The new Horsforth Climate Action Thermal Imaging Camera scheme will equip Horsforth...
How You Can Help
Engage in simple, impactful actions to conserve energy:
- Craft Draught Excluders: A fun, effective way to keep your home warm.
- Monitor Energy Usage: Use apps like Hugo Energy App to understand and manage your consumption.
- Switch Energy Providers: Consider more sustainable options available at Money Saving Expert or Ethical Consumer.
- Review and Upgrade Insulation: Enhance your home’s energy efficiency.
If you’re interested in revitalising our Energy group and have ideas and energy to make it happen, email us at volunteer@horsforthclimateaction.org
Upcoming Activities
Stay tuned for updates on our ongoing projects and how you can be a part of these efforts by checking our Events Page.
Let’s work together for a greener, more sustainable Horsforth. Every action counts, and your involvement is key to our success. Join us in safeguarding our planet for future generations.
Join Us!
Do you have the skills, time and energy to help kickstart our energy group? Have you retrofitted your home? Have you installed green energy systems like solar panels or a heat pump? Would you be willing to talk to people about this, and pass on your lived experience and expertise? Your knowledge and enthusiasm can significantly benefit people in Horsforth and are invaluable in helping our community reduce its carbon footprint.