by Steve Byrne | Feb 6, 2016 | renewable energy
Last winter we were the masters of firewood. Ample supplies, thanks to kind folk,and having our own huge sycamore fall over in the wind. The summer of 2015 saw the woodyard completely cleared, as amazing volunteers helped us split, chop, and stack the whole lot inside.
by Steve Byrne | Feb 4, 2016 | off grid
The four huge spruce trees at the front of our cottage offer plenty of welcome privacy, but they do overshadow the growing field somewhat, so we decided to take down the largest of them and see what a difference it makes.
by Steve Byrne | Aug 28, 2015 | off grid
The last week I have despaired somewhat as I watch the government dismantle the renewables industry in the name of shaving a quid off people’s energy bills, whilst simultaneously propping up the oil and gas industry to the tune of £1 billion and shamelessly...
by Steve Byrne | Aug 22, 2015 | animals
Today was ‘chicken day’ – 15 weeks or so ago, these 10 birds arrived as day old chicks, supplied by our friends Brian and Becky, as something of an experiment in rearing our own meat. They have led a happy outdoor existence, foraging, enjoying...
by Steve Byrne | Aug 3, 2015 | off grid
Solar power is wonderful but here in Northern Ireland sun is often in short supply, especially in winter when the days are short. Hence the need for an alternative – in this case a wind turbine. Bornay, who make this particular model have been building turbines...
