Zero Energy Bills? One Victorian Home Shows It’s Possible
- Lauretta Wright
- May 15
- 1 min read
Imagine never paying an energy bill again — even in an older home.
That’s exactly what Octopus Energy achieved in a recent pilot project in Walthamstow, London. By installing solar panels, a battery storage system, and an air source heat pump, they transformed a typical Victorian terraced house into a net-zero energy home — all without major disruption or expensive insulation works.
At HEAT Essex, we think this is a glimpse into the future. It shows that with the right technologies, even older homes can be radically improved — cutting carbon and saving money along the way.
What did they install?
Solar PV panels – generating clean electricity from sunlight
Battery storage – storing energy to use when the sun’s not shining
Air Source Heat Pump – replacing gas heating with efficient electric warmth
And that’s it. No expensive deep retrofit, no new windows or wall insulation — just smart, well-matched systems working together.
What does this mean for Essex homes?
Lots of homes across Essex are similar to the one in this trial — older, solid-walled, and with residents feeling the squeeze of rising energy prices. The good news is that support is available.
Through HEAT Essex, you could be eligible for help with:
Solar panel installation
Heat pump systems
Home insulation
And more — often fully funded or heavily subsidised
We’ll guide you through the process, check your eligibility, and help you create a warmer, more affordable home.
Curious if your home could be next?
To read the whole story check it out
