Since we moved into this 1960s bungalow conversion in 2011, we have made quite a few changes. We started with cavity wall insulation, covered by a grant. We switched to an electricity tariff based on 100% renewable energy.

Next, we installed 14 photovoltaic panels on the south-facing roof aspect, together with a Tesla Powerwall battery and a Zappi EV charger. The battery is set up so that we can continue to use stored electricity during a power cut. We became virtually ‘off grid’ in the summer months. Following an independent energy expert survey, we upgraded some of the older double glazing so that it was all A-rated and argon filled. Also, nearly all lights bulbs were converted to LED.

Finally, the gas boiler was replaced with a Stiebel Eltron air source heat pump (which qualified for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant) by an MCS certified installer. Plus the gas hob was replaced with an induction one. We could then be disconnected from mains gas. We also replaced the rigid steel garage door with a Hörmann sectional one with 42mm thickness of insulation.

With all these changes, our energy efficiency rating went up from D only to C – this is quite disappointing but one has to realise the constraints of the older building materials and methods used in the original construction and the conversion and the limitations of having upstairs ‘in the roof’. The main message is that the heat pump has more than enough capacity to heat the house even in subzero conditions.

We now use the Intelligent Octopus Go tariff. We charge both the car and Tesla batteries on the cheaper rate. We also export to the grid when we have surplus.

The property can be viewed all the year round, by appointment only: contact dorsetgreenerhomes@gmail.com. Visitors will be given recent figures for energy consumption and cost.