Solar and wood heating installations for travellers
Solar and wood heating installations for travellers
Exploring energy efficiency and renewable energy at travellers' sites in South Gloucestershire
This project aimed to explore ways to improve energy efficiency at two travellers sites In South Gloucestershire as well examining the options for using renewable energy.
South Gloucestershire Council operates two permanent sites for travellers, one at Patchway and the other at Winterbourne. Each is divided into pitches on which residents park vehicles and caravans, and each pitch has a utility block with a bathroom, toilet and cooking facilities.
Space and water heating of the utility blocks is currently provided by on peak electricity paid via card meters. The objective of this project was to explore ways of improving the thermal efficiency of the utility blocks, so reducing the energy required to provide adequate warmth and cutting fuel bills. In parallel to this, CSE also examined the options for using renewable energy to further reduce the emissions of carbon dioxide associated with providing space and water heating.
After a scoping visit to one site, a detailed technical survey was carried out on both sites. The utility blocks on both sites were surveyed and modelled to examine the effect of upgrading features such as the insulation. CSE also modelled the performance of a community room and office on one of the sites.
The initial technical survey yielded a broad range of measures which could be implemented. Following consultation with South Gloucestershire Council staff and the residents this was refined to a shortlist of measures. These were: solar hot water heating, showers, heat recover ventilation fans in the bathrooms and draughtproofing.
The study concluded that, largely for reasons of health and safety, the use of biomass heating would not be appropriate on either of the two sites. However, solar water heating could provide a significant reduction in the cost of fuel used by residents on both sites if combined with the installation of showers.
Other energy efficiency measures would improve the comfort of those using the bathrooms, particularly families with young children.
The report has been accepted by South Gloucestershire Council, which is now considering how to take it forward.