WYRE Forest residents can enjoy a guided tour of renewable energy examples in the district’s homes and community buildings.

People who book to go on the renewable energy trail will see technologies in action, including ground source heating, grey water, solar water heating and photovoltaic (PV) panels.

They can also ask questions about renewables with local home owners who have already adopted the new approaches to energy.

Rock resident, Brian Smith, is one of the homeowners taking part in the trail. He recently installed both solar water heating and photovoltaic panels at his property.

He was able to take advantage of the Feed-in Tariff, which was introduced in April and makes a payment for electricity generated from renewable sources.

Mr Smith said: “We installed these technologies as we wanted to lower our carbon footprint. The Feed-in Tariff and ever increasing rise in fossil fuel prices were also incentives to make the change.

“Six months on, we’re really pleased with the savings we’ve made, particularly from the PV system. It has been much better than we expected.

“We monitor our meter readings to ensure maximum efficiency and have also adapted our lifestyle to best take advantage of the systems.”

Conservative councillor, Marcus Hart, Wyre Forest District Council’s cabinet member for housing and environmental services, said: “This is a great opportunity to learn about new technologies from local people who’ve already tried and tested them.

“Well done to these homeowners for taking the initiative and helping others to explore new ways of being energy efficient.”

The Renewable Energy Trail will be held on Sunday next week between 11am and 4pm.

People who want to attend should contact the Bewdley Development Trust, on 01299 405516, or e-mail matthewrhymer@hotmail.com for additional information and to book a place.