FROM next month two free drop-in sessions will be available at the Stroud Internet Cafe for anyone who thinks they are spending too much money on energy and doing too little for the planet.

After moving from a modern London home to a century-old, energy inefficient house in Uplands four years ago, part-time teacher Debbie Hewitt found her energy usage was going through the roof and her money out of the window.

But having since taken an Open University course on sustainable technology and having made modifications to her house, Debbie, 39, is now offering Five Valleys people the chance to assess the energy efficiency of their own homes by completing a computer survey.

And via a separate eco-footprint assessment Debbie is also giving individuals the chance to look at the way their lifestyle choices - including travel arrangements, water use and shopping habits - impact on the planet.

"We love our house but it is draughty, has original sash windows and is expensive to heat," said Debbie.

After typing-in a range of details the computer software suggests a number of measures for your home.

"The software recommended thicker loft insulation, draught-proofing around windows and doors and eco-lighting.

"We also decided to put foil behind our radiators to reflect heat back into the rooms and install a wood-burning stove to reduce extra heat loss from the large open fireplace."

Debbie estimates these and a number of other modifications saved her £100 last year.

The home efficiency survey gives a rating similar to that of the Government's RDSAP rating - an indicator which will be a legal requirement from June 1, 2007 when selling a house.

"Both surveys are about doing very practical things and changes made will help reduce CO2 emissions which is good for the environment," said Debbie.

*Sessions will be held at Stroud Internet Caf, 48 High Street, on the first Saturday of every month from October 7 between 10am-noon.

Contact Debbie on 01453 767696 for further information.