We hosted a community energy drop-in session on Monday 17th June at the Ormidale Pavilion. This event was part of our ongoing commitment to help residents access up-to-date, accurate information about energy efficiency, home improvements, and grant opportunities.

This was the first time we have trialled a drop-in style format for an energy event. It was introduced in response to community feedback requesting more flexible and informal engagement options. Our aim was to make the session as accessible and relaxed as possible.

We also used the event to soft launch our new Arran Energy Survey. This is helping us build a clearer picture of how people on the island heat their homes, the challenges they face, and what support they might need in the future. Early conversations at the event have already provided valuable insight into fuel types, heating patterns, and concerns around energy costs.

During the event, Helen Ross, Chair of Eco Savvy, was pleased to announce that funding has been secured until March 2026 to continue and expand our work through the Tackling Climate Change by Living Well for Less programme. This additional funding will allow us to build on existing projects, deepen our engagement with island households, and further support practical climate action across Arran.

Attendees

The event was well attended by local residents who engaged with energy advisors and discussed a range of topics including insulation, solar PV, air source heat pumps, and funding support.

We were pleased to welcome the following organisations:

• Home Energy Scotland – Providing impartial advice on energy efficiency, available grants, and funding schemes including the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan.
  
• M-Four – Representing the Area Based Scheme (ABS), M-Four provided advice for eligible households to access support for insulation and other home improvement measures.
  
• Green Home Systems – An accredited installer under multiple government-backed energy schemes, GHS shared information on insulation, renewables, and ECO4 eligibility.
  

Unfortunately, Valley Group and Optama were unable to attend due to delays in the Caledonian Isles ferry returning to service. Both organisations sent their apologies and have offered to reschedule a future visit to the island to engage with the community.

Resident Insight

Local homeowner Mark shared his personal experience of removing old cavity wall wool insulation from the west-facing side of his property due to persistent damp issues. His story sparked a wider conversation about the challenges of retrofitting older island homes, particularly those exposed to severe weather. We look forward to speaking with Mark in the near future to find out more about how his home is drying out.

Additional Services Offered

Lewis, our Energy Technician, was on hand to provide practical advice on home efficiency and heat loss. He was also able to book several residents in for free thermal imaging assessments. These help identify areas of heat loss and potential improvements. This service has proven to be a valuable tool in guiding homeowners toward effective, affordable upgrades. If you would like more information on this service please contact sofi@arranecosavvy.org.uk.

Zero Waste Cafe

The event was held alongside a Zero Waste Cafe. Offering a welcoming space with hot soup, cake, and refreshments made from surplus food. As well as our affordable tinned goods and zero waste goods. Jess, our Sustainable Food Coordinator, was also on hand to chat about food waste reduction!

Feedback and Outcomes

Residents commented positively on the event. Particularly appreciating the chance to speak directly with energy experts without needing to travel off-island. Many attendees also took the time to complete our Arran Energy Survey and expressed interest in future events.

While the event was well attended, it was not our most popular to date, a useful learning for future planning. We believe attendance may have been affected by the weekday lunchtime timing. We’ll trial adjusting future events to include evening or weekend options to better suit those who work during the day.

Next Steps

• Continue promoting the Arran Energy Survey across all villages
• Collate and share a summary of key grants discussed at the event
• Follow up with Valley Group and Optama regarding a return visit
• Explore evening or weekend scheduling for future drop-in sessions
• Continue to deliver accessible, face-to-face engagement opportunities across Arran’s villages

Thanks to all speakers, the Eco Savvy team, to all participants.

Our next event is scheduled for September. More details to follow.

Share this article