Cheshire couple invests £300k to improve schoolhouse efficiency

Steve and Sarah Barr have purchased a 17th-century schoolhouse in Cheshire for £215,000. They plan to invest an additional £300,000 to make the home energy efficient, aiming for the Passivhaus standard to significantly reduce heating costs. The couple will add features like triple glazing, a heat pump, solar panels, and a ventilation system. Their goal is to create a comfortable living space that maintains a constant temperature while minimizing energy bills. The total project cost is expected to reach £500,000, but they anticipate annual energy expenses could drop to under £1,000 after renovations and solar panel use. The couple is also focusing on sustainable investments for their retirement.