My interest in renewable energy and sustainability has always been a driving force in my life, but I wanted to bridge the gap between technical knowledge and practical action in my community. When I discovered the Energy Champion Programme hosted by the Bristol Energy Network, I knew this was the perfect opportunity to make a tangible impact. The workshops covered topics from retrofit, insulation and ventilation, draught-proofing, low carbon technologies and energy saving tips with the skills to tackle home energy inefficiencies, promote sustainability, and inspire community action.  

One of the standout aspects of the workshop was the opportunity for individuals to undergo an energy trace of their homes, a process that highlighted inefficiencies, such as poor insulation, drafts, or heating system issues. This programme created a collaborative environment for participants to share and analyze their home energy challenges. What made the experience more valuable was the collective discussion afterward. Participants openly shared their findings, realising that many of us faced similar challenges at home. 

I found this programme really insightful since the team of Bristol Energy Network believes that the energy transition must empower local communities and energy understanding should be accessible to everyone. With the workshops I learned different ways of improving home energy efficiency. The programme introduced the concept of energy literacy, making it easier to navigate the often confusing world of home energy improvements.  

What was covered…

Workshop 1: 

I realised retrofitting is as much about behaviour change as it is about technology. Small adjustments
in our daily habits can significantly reduce energy loss in our homes. A key principle of retrofitting is
mainly maintaining a balance between cost-effective solutions and long-term carbon reduction. 

Workshop 2: 

This practical session focused on how small DIY draught-proofing changes can make a big difference
in energy conservation. These cost-effective drought-proofing techniques can be from sealing gaps
to insulating windows. 

Workshop 3: 

This session focused on the critical balance between insulation and ventilation to prevent dampness and mould. I found it interesting that how moisture balance is essential to maintaining a healthy and energy-efficient home. Ventilation and insulation must work alongside each other to ensure a sustainable and comfortable living environment. 

Workshop 4: 

The final session tied everything together, focusing on renewable energy solutions like heat pumps and the broader role of community action. The benefits of heat pumps and the steps to make homes "heat pump ready." were discussed. As Bristol Energy Network emphasise, “Tackling energy inefficiency is not just an individual responsibility—it’s a community effort.” 

What I’ve taken away from the programme…

The Energy Champion Programme has been an incredible journey of learning and empowerment. It has given me the tools to not only improve energy efficiency in my own home but also to contribute meaningfully to my community. I’ve become more confident in identifying and addressing energy inefficiencies, but more importantly, I feel equipped to inspire others to do the same. 

What I learned from the team in Bristol Energy Network community is whether it’s running workshops, organizing community retrofitting events, or simply sharing knowledge with neighbours, every action counts. Together, we can create a greener, more sustainable future! If you’re considering joining the Energy Champion Programme or a similar initiative in the future, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s not just about learning—it’s about creating meaningful change in your home, your community, and beyond.