York Open Eco Homes: Wheelchair-friendly 1996 detached house (Copmanthorpe)

Visit a home that is better for people and the planet: more comfortable, with lower energy bills and carbon emissions. Learn from the host's experiences and find inspiration for your own home. Please see this page for the list of all homes participating in this annual event - you're welcome to visit more than one!

The hosts primarily wanted to reduce their carbon emissions and reliance on the grid. To reduce heat loss, the house has had its cavity walls, loft and roof insulated, and there are double-glazed windows throughout. Electricity is saved by using LED lighting and highly efficient appliances. Renewable energy is generated in the home by a 6.5kW solar PV array. Surplus is either stored in 17Kwh of batteries, diverted into a hot water tank, used by their electric car or exported into the grid. The gas boiler has been removed, radiators upgraded and an 8Kw air-source heat pump was installed. The hosts enjoy not using any gas and having negative electricity bills during the summer.

Booking is essential - you will be asked to choose a tour slot and receive the full home address later. Each tour will last between 30-60 minutes. If you're planning to visit other homes on the same day, please consider how you will travel between them before booking. For more info please contact Ivana via ivana@yorkcommunityenergy.org.uk.

Free entry, booking is required via this page or by leaving a message on 01904 922781. 

Accessibility: although not purpose-built as such, the house is accessible for wheelchairs. Visitors are welcome to make use of the toilet if needed. 

This year's event is part of the Home Upgrade Champions partnership project and York Environment Festival - check out the programme for 100+ free events spanning from 3rd October - 1st November.

The Home Upgrade Champions project is a partnership between York Community Energy, University of York, Stockholm Environment Institute and Abundance Investment; supported by David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire and part-funded by York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.