News in brief
Oak Tree House opens its doors
The doors to Woking's first fully kitted out, low carbon home were flung open during the autumn to show local people what measures they can implement in their own households to help reduce their carbon footprint and water consumption.
Over the last twelve months, Oak Tree House in Knaphill has been transformed from an ordinary three-bedroom detached house into a showcase for energy efficiency, renewable technology and water saving improvements.
Working with its energy company, ecsc, building partner, Mansell Plc, and environmental partner, Woking LA21, Woking Borough Council has created a demonstration home and garden for others to view and identify which measures they could adopt in their own homes.
Residents who are keen to make a difference can see for themselves how energy can be created from natural sources, as both solar water heating and solar photovoltaic panels have been installed to harness energy from the sun. The building also has a highly efficient central heating system and is very well insulated to ensure that as little heat as possible is wasted. Low energy appliances and lighting help to lower electricity consumption in the home whilst rainwater harvesting technology significantly reduces the water requirements of the property.
In the garden, carefully chosen drought-resistant plants, wildflower turf and decking made from sustainably-sourced timber lead the way to fruit and vegetable beds and a composting area.
Oak Tree House is a key part of a larger programme called Woking Low Carbon Homes which initially aims to help around 1,000 local homeowners to transform their properties into low carbon homes.
Tours of Oak Tree House can now be arranged via the Council's energy company, ecsc. If you would like to pay the house a visit or if you would like further information about the Woking Low Carbon Homes Programme, please call ecsc on 0800 783 2503.
