The competition was instigated and judged by HomeSun, the UK’s leading free solar experts, and Findaproperty.com. All entrants were judged against a range of criteria including use of loft, wall and pipe insulation, energy efficiency ratings for boilers and electrical appliances, onsite generation of energy and installation of double glazing.
With an ever increasing number of UK households turning to green appliances and methods to help cut carbon emissions and reduce energy bills, entries included homes that used solar power, rain water harvesting, vegetable patches, energy efficient light bulbs, composting and innovative insulation techniques and the use of solar to charge up electric vehicles.
Competition winner Glenn Simpson said: “This is quite an accolade which rewards the real commitment we have made to being green. We always try to conserve and re-use as much as we can to benefit the environment and our finances. I intend to use the prize money to install more green technology such as purchase solar panels which would help save even more money off my energy bills.”
Former BBC weatherman Michael Fish is helping HomeSun promote Britain’s Greenest Home. Presenting the prize to Mr and Mrs Simpson he said, “As I’ve said before, people do see the benefits of making their homes green not only for the environment but for their wallets too. The winners have set a great example but we had thousands of entries, all who’ve managed to save on their bills.”
HomeSun CEO Daniel Green said: “With gas and electricity prices set to go up following recent price hikes from the major energy companies, green technologies can make a big difference to household bills. One option for thousands of homes is solar PV panels with free installation available for those who cannot afford the initial outlay. A survey of our customers shows that they are saving around £290 on average per year. There really has never been a better time to install solar.”
Nigel Lewis of Findaproperty.com said: “Britain has embraced green homes in recent years. We are seeing more and more homes for sale on our site that have been refurbished or remodelled with greener living in mind. Green initiatives save money and can add to the value of a property. Glenn Simpson impressed us with his eco insulation measures using naturally produced fibre from sheep.”