Making green choices:
it’s easier than you think
Eco Berko is a community
group based in Berkhamsted, and we're passionate about helping local residents
make greener choices.
The good news?
You don't
have to do everything at once. Every small step counts, and many of the changes
that make the biggest difference are simpler – and more affordable – than you
might expect. Whether you're curious about slashing your energy bills, ditching
your gas boiler, insulating your home or making the switch to an electric car,
you’ve come to the right place.
Below are some practical,
honest guides based on real local experience. These aren't glossy brochures
from energy companies; they're written by Berkhamsted residents who've already
made these changes and want to share what they've learned.
Below you'll find
information across four key areas: Green Energy, Green Heat, Retrofitting
and Electric Vehicles. Dip into whichever is most relevant to you, or
explore them all. There's no pressure and no agenda – just straightforward
advice to help you make informed decisions at your own pace.
And if you need more
information on any of the topics or anything else eco-related, we’d love to
hear from you info@ecoberko.uk
Our eco-energy guides
Green Energy
The lowdown on solar panels and batteries – how to generate your
own electricity, cut your bills, and store energy for when you need it most. Read more
Green Heat
Heat pumps explained: how they work, what they cost, and how to
prep your home for one. Read more
Retrofitting Your Home
From loft insulation to draught-proofing and choosing the right
supplier, here are some practical ways to keep heat in and energy bills down. Read more
Electric Vehicles
Thinking about going electric? We cover everything from real-world
range to charging at home – and bust a few myths along the way. Read more
Green Energy: Solar panels and battery storage
Renewable energy generation: What are the considerations?
Over two million homes now have a solar array installation, many of which also have accompanying battery storage. These save greenhouse gas emissions, save electricity costs, generate income and don’t pollute the air.
· Where to install the panels
· How many panels do you need?
· Integrating battery storage with solar panels
· Comparing energy tariffs
Follow the links below for
more information and case studies on Solar panels and Battery storage
·
Solar panels – what are the
options? - Read more
· DNO Solar export flow chart - Read more
·
Case Study – Edwardian home -
Green Heat: Heat Pumps explained
Green heat: Why heat pumps are the future
Gas boilers account for a huge share of UK carbon emissions – and with more than 60% of our gas imported, the case for switching to greener heating has never been stronger. Heat pumps are efficient, reliable, and increasingly affordable thanks to the Government's £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant.
· Air source heat pumps deliver three to five units of heat for every unit of electricity used
· They’re suitable for most homes, including older properties with the right preparation
· Insulate first – it reduces the size and cost of the system needed
· Running costs compare favourably with oil and direct electric heating
· More than 2.2 million heat pumps installed across Europe in 2024 alone
Follow the links below for more information and case studies on Heat pumps
· Heat pumps, what are the options? - Read more
· How to guide for installing an air source heat pump
· Case study – Victorian terrace house
· Case Study – 1970’s house
· Case Study – 1940s detached house
Retrofitting Home Energy Efficiency
Keep the heat in: a guide to home insulation
Around 22% of UK carbon emissions come from our homes – and poorly insulated houses are a major cause. Good insulation cuts energy bills, reduces fuel poverty, and creates healthier living conditions. There are five key areas of heat loss to address in any home:
· Roof/loft insulation: one of the most cost-effective improvements available
· Wall insulation: options include cavity wall fill or external/internal solid wall insulation
· Windows: double glazing, secondary glazing or draught sealing as a lower-cost fix
· Floors: insulation beneath suspended floors; rugs and mats also help
· Draught-proofing: sealing gaps around doors, windows, chimneys, and loft hatches
Choosing a good installer is vital to a successful Insulation, Solar energy or Heat Pump project.
· Check if they have the right qualifications and experience
· Make sure the design suits your needs
· Do they offer guarantees and follow up support?
· Cost and value
Berkhamsted Town Council offer a thermal imaging service to help identify heat loss spots in your home.
Follow the links below for more information and case studies on home retrofitting
· Home insulation guidance - Read more
· How to guide on home insulation and ventilation
· Case study – 135 year old Berkhamsted property
· Case study – 1948 House Heating System Upgrade
· Quick wins on home energy efficiency
· Berkhamsted Town Council - Energy saving advice
· Thermal imaging camera – Berkhamsted Town Council service
· Advice on selecting a renewables installer
Electric Vehicles
Electric Vehicles – cleaner, cheaper, quieter
Electric Vehicles (EVs) produce no exhaust emissions, are quieter, and cost significantly less to run and maintain than petrol or diesel cars. With home charging, renewable energy options, and nearly 120,000 public charging points in the UK, owning an EV is easier than ever. Longer journeys are better supported than ever by a growing rapid charging network.
The benefits
· no exhaust emissions and ULEZ compliant
· lower running costs
· nearly 120,000 public charging points in the UK
· more comfortable driving
· you can spend less actual time charging than filling up at petrol stations
Follow the links below for more information on electric vehicles
· Things to know about Electric Vehicles and Charging
· Electric vehicles and Charging Ecofair 2026 display - Read more
· EV sources of information sheet - Read more
Other useful websites:
The Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) and the Energy Savings Trust (EST) are two independent and respected charitable expert organisations.
They were both set up to advise and support people and organisations that want to be more efficient with their energy consumption and to help move towards a smart, decarbonised and decentralised energy system.
Their websites are packed with loads of simple, practical and informed advice on renewable energy, insulation and heating, fuel poverty and much more.
Their information can be accessed at:
Home energy advice leaflets - Centre for Sustainable
Energy
Energy at home - Energy Saving Trust