CLIMATE Action Silsden has added an energy helpdesk to the services it offers at its monthly repair cafe.

The helpdesk provides information about a wide range of measures that people can take to reduce their energy costs and, at the same time, make their homes warmer and reduce their carbon emissions. These range from quick, inexpensive measures like putting a draught-excluding 'sausage' along the bottom of external doors, to loft and wall insulation and secondary glazing. The helpdesk volunteers can also provide information about solar panels, battery storage and heat pumps.

One of the volunteers, Andy Taylor, explains that "there are a number of grants available to help with the cost of insulation, new gas boilers, solar panels and heat pumps, and you don’t have to be in receipt of benefits to be eligible. Come and have a chat with one of us to find out how you can reduce the cost of heating your home."

The energy volunteers are also running an open weekend, on February 23 and 24, when anyone can turn up at one of five houses whose owners are keen to share information about the energy-saving measures they have put in place – what has worked well and what to avoid. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to people who have first-hand experience.

The helpdesk and repair cafe will be at Silsden Methodist Church this Saturday (February 17), between 9.30am and noon.

Further information about the open weekend can be found on Climate Action Silsden’s Facebook page and on posters around Silsden.

Alison Tribe, Silsden