New advice service launches
Thanks to an ambitious new energy advice service spanning Hampshire, Southampton and Portsmouth, homeowners can now easily access tailored, free and impartial advice for making their home warmer, cheaper to run, and fit for future.
My home made better is a free service that helps homeowners get to the bottom of why their home might be losing heat in winter, what’s causing high energy bills, and even whether there are opportunities to increase the property’s value or earn money by selling electricity back to the grid.
Led by experienced energy advisers here at the Environment Centre (tEC), My home made better recognises that generic information on heating, insulation and solar panels isn’t enough, and that householders need relatable guidance unique to their property and circumstances.
It ensures that callers receive dedicated time to discuss their circumstances and explore their options. They will then receive an email that summarises their conversation and sets out recommendations and actions in a step-by-step plan. With impartiality at its core, the service aims to give every caller the confidence to take the steps when they’re ready, with no pressure, and at a pace that suits them.
More than a phone line
This one-of-a-kind service also recognises that homeowners need multiple sources of inspiration to help them make informed decisions. My home made better is more than a phone line; it’s a regionwide effort to inspire, educate and connect people, particularly amongst the growing community of householders who have already acted and want to share their experiences with others.
The Environment Centre (tEC) was awarded funding from the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme as part of its application in partnership with Winchester Action on Climate Change (WinACC), Petersfield Climate Action Network (PeCAN), and Energy Alton.
My home made better has received significant backing from Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council, Portsmouth City Council and many other authorities and organisations in the region.
If you’d like to start exploring options for your home, simply phone 0800 804 8601 or email myhome@environmentcentre.com.
For inspiration, case studies and videos from around the region, head to www.myhomemadebetter.org.
Could you help to inspire others?
My home made better aims to inspire, motivate and support homeowners making big decisions. If you love talking to people and have a bit of time to spare, becoming a volunteer Energy Champion could be for you.
Whether you have your own experience in upgrading your home’s energy or you’re keen to join a community of like-minded people, we’d love to hear from you!
Once you’ve completed your induction, we’ll work with you to find opportunities that suit your availability and interests. We’ll be speaking to community groups, hosting stalls and delivering presentations, so there’ll be plenty to get involved in.
Our next online training session for Energy Champions will take place on Wednesday, 23rd April 2025 from 6.30pm – 8.30pm. Please sign up here to register your interest in becoming a volunteer Energy Champion and we’ll be in touch with further details.
