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Summary

Charles Kemp and Sara Crowley run the Frome Healing Practice in their home and explain why they have created a green home: ‘We are committed to living in a spiritually aware manner. This includes minimizing our impact on the environment, and being mindful of the way we use resources. Our aim has been to create a harmonious healing space in which others, as well as ourselves, may find benefit and enjoyment whether as family, friends, visitors or clients.’

The solar thermal and photovoltaic (PV) panels have both worked well, and Charles and Sarah find the PV panels particularly effective, as they earn credit with their electricity supplier (Good Energy).

Future plans include possible replacement of more existing sash windows with new, double-glazed ones, and improved low energy lighting solutions.

Green features in the home

• Photovoltaic panels (1.89kw peak installed power)
• Solar panels for hot water (Thermovax Evacuated Tube Solar System, comprising 20 tubes)
• Loft insulation
• Double-glazed Velux and dormer windows
• Replacement wooden sash windows also double glazed to conserve heat and reduce noise

Green features outside

• Compost bin
• Five water butts to collect rainwater from the roof
• Vegetable and fruit (as well as flower) growing
• Low energy lighting

Energy use

Electricity: monthly direct debit payments totalled £678 for 2008, but payments have been reduced to £15 a month due to overpayment. £115.20 was earned on the home generation scheme.
Gas: During 2008 the bill totalled £659.59.
Other fuel: Around £150 to £200 spent on wood and coal.

Suppliers used and recommended by owners

To find out more

To contact the owners for more information about this property, email charles.fhp@blueyonder.co.uk.

Directions

Somerset Road is 10 minutes walk from the town centre, and 25 minutes walk from Frome railway station. Please approach the house from the garden which can be reached either via the alley between 18 and 18 Somerset Road, or via Whitewell Place where there is parking.