Bristol initiative being used nationally to help save energy in homes

A Bristol non-for-profit has developed an initiative to help people save energy in their homes across the UK.

The Cold Homes Energy Efficiency Survey Experts project (CHEESE) has designed a unique surveying system which is being used nationally to help conserve domestic energy.

The people behind the project have developed unique thermal-imaging surveys to identify where exactly in the home heat is being lost. It will then suggest remedies to prevent further heat loss.

As it’s getting colder, its more reason to #donateyourdiscount to those families living in fuel poverty who are struggling in homes which they can’t keep warm. Follow the link to find out more: https://t.co/bJJPwoxA4i

— The C.H.E.E.S.E. Project (@CHEESEBristol) December 9, 2022

This comes at an important time as the UK experiences cold weather and with millions of people unable to heat their homes due to an increase in energy bills.

The initiative is not just helping people save money and stay warm this winter, but it is simultaneously having a positive impact on the environment.

CHEESE Project was founded in 2014 by Mike Andrews, a former TV executive producer and director with the BBC Natural History Unit, and Jeremy Birch who founded Friends of the Earth in Bristol.

The pair developed a brand-new thermal camera, software and an enhanced thermal imaging system used inside the home with pressure-reduction – using a big fan with a cloth fixed in an external doorway – to create a low-cost solution to energy conservation in the home.

Homeowners can see the survey in action on a tablet which is linked to the camera, so they know exactly where the heat from their house is escaping.

Surveys cost £135 and are free to people in poor housing conditions, low income and to those living in fuel poverty.

In #Bristol and concerned about the #energyefficiency of your home?

The Cold Homes Energy Efficiency Survey Experts Project @CHEESEBristol aims to help people reduce energy loss at home, for a low cost – saving money and reducing our carbon emissions ? https://t.co/fc59b1g3IM pic.twitter.com/gohQilik87

— Action Net Zero (@actionnetzero) November 24, 2022

Mike Andrews said: “What we offer is the difference between three hundred quid and £25k to start making your home energy efficient. And people know exactly where to start.

“We know it works, 87 per cent of those surveyed take remedial action within a year of a survey, so we know our surveys act as a catalyst, prompting the all important first step on the journey to a warmer home.”

Mike and his team are beginning to replicate this model across the UK by launching First Thermal Ltd as a social franchisor.

With many community groups currently looking to do more to help householders save energy at home but many lacking the skills, knowledge or experience to effectively help them, First Thermal is aims to provide a long-term solution to bridge this gap.

The first thermal launch event was held in Future Leap on Gloucester Road on Monday.

CHEESE have carried out 500 surveys in Bristol and Bath to perfect their technique and have provided their own training to local people for free.

Main photo: Rachel Sutherland

Read next: 

• Emergency fundraiser launched to help people pay energy bills this winter 
• Warm spaces scheme welcomes first residents in time for winter
• Survey: how do Bristolians use electricity? 

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