New Alice Springs Sustainable Living House to be open for public inspection
23 June 2009
A new Sustainable Living House, to be open to the Alice Springs public over the next two years has been chosen for a $50,000 sustainability makeover.
Kristelle Sherwood, who owns the home in Kurrajong Drive, says when she bought the property in 2007 it was a blank canvas but her vision was for it to become more sustainable.
“When I bought the house it did not have a single plant in the garden but since then I have planted over 50 native trees and shrubs. I have also planted vegetable garden and fruit trees, installed a verandah for shade, and changed tap fittings. It is a good start; however there is a long way to go for my home to become more sustainable.”
“My home is a pretty average Alice Springs home and will become a good example of the sorts of things other residents can achieve – I look forward to opening my home as an example of sustainable living.”
Part of the Alice Solar City project, in partnership with COOLmob, the demonstration home will be open up to six times per year for two years.
Alice Solar City General Manager, Brian Elmer says the house will allow residents to see first hand, a wide range of measures that will significantly reduce their water and power bills.
“We are still working with Kristelle to finalise the makeover, but it will include activities such as installing both a solar power and a new solar hot water system on the roof, new energy efficient whitegoods, shading, efficient irrigation for the garden, and insulation.”
“Simple actions, like installing low energy light bulbs, curtains and door weather seals will help the house to eventually become an energy champion house.”
Robbie Henderson, COOLmob Project Officer said, “We will also be looking at installing water efficient measures such as a 5 star rated dual flush toilet, front loading washing machine, grey water system and rainwater tank.”
The Open Days will showcase the progress of the home as it becomes more sustainable, and will include presentations, displays, and the results of monitoring how the house is performing.
The first Open Day is planned for September 2009 to coincide with the Sustainable House Day – a national event to showcase sustainable living across the country.
Ends…..
For media enquiries please contact Laurelle Halford from Creative Territory on 0417 222 211 or (08) 8953 7919 or laurelle@creativeterritory.com
About Alice Solar City:
The Alice Springs Solar City Consortium is led by the Alice Springs Town Council and includes broad community support from the Northern Territory Government, Power and Water Corporation, Tangentyere Council, the Northern Territory Chamber of Commerce, the Desert Knowledge Cooperative Research Centre and the Arid Lands Environment Centre. Funding sources include the Australian Government, the Northern Territory Government, Power and Water Corporation, and Alice Springs Town Council.
