In a new blog, Oli Bachini, Sustainability Advisor at Cambridgeshire ACRE makes the case for why all Cambridgeshire’s village halls and community buildings should join the queue for a free energy audit.

 

I’ve spent the last few months visiting community buildings across Cambridgeshire – village halls, community centres and church buildings – and one thing is clear: these places are the beating heart of our rural communities.

That’s why I’m encouraging every community building to request a free energy audit from Cambridgeshire ACRE. It’s a straightforward step with potentially transformative benefits – our audits have identified an average of £2,600 in annual financial savings for the halls who have taken part so far.

Why now?

Running a community building is a labour of love, but it’s often a balancing act with competing priorities and limited time. Rising energy costs and our responsibility to reduce carbon emissions are putting real pressure on communities. With our expert support, these pressures can become opportunities.

What a free energy audit gives you

When you book an audit, I’ll visit your building with a purpose: to identify quick wins and longer-term improvements tailored to your needs and budget. Here’s what you can expect:

• Practical, tailored insights – We’ll walk around, look at how your building is used and flag areas where energy is leaking, perhaps drafty doors, inefficient boilers or lighting that’s left on longer than it needs to be.
• Clear, jargon-free advice – I’ll explain everything in everyday terms: think “old radiators” rather than “high surface temperature emitters,” and “simple LED switches” instead of “luminous flux optimisation.” No jargon, just clarity.
• An action plan that works – I’ll help you prioritise what to tackle – whether that’s a low-cost fix, like draught-proofing or a bigger upgrade, like installing solar panels. Each step comes with cost estimates and projected savings.
• Access to next steps and funding – We’ll then support you to make grant applications, identifying funding streams and helping you make case for investment. We’ll hold your hand, as much as you need, along every step of the way.

How the audit helps your community

• Reduce your bills – Simple changes like switching to LED lights or draught-proofing can save hundreds of pounds a year – funds you can reinvest in other aspects of your building.
• Futureproof your building – As energy costs continue to rise, investing in insulation or efficient heating systems helps protect your venue from future shocks, making it a more sustainable community asset.
• Enhance comfort and access – Warmer, better-lit halls are more welcoming for everyone – especially older residents, young families and people with mobility or health needs. That sense of belonging matters.
• Demonstrate green leadership – You’ll be setting the tone for local environmental action – and showing other community groups what’s possible. Every step towards efficiency is a step towards climate resilience.

Why Cambridgeshire ACRE?

• Deep roots in local life – You know us – we appreciate how each village and every building is different. Our approach listens first and adapts second. We’re here to support your vision, not impose ours.
• Expert, non-judgemental support – We don’t believe in telling you what to do. We partner with you – sharing knowledge, building confidence and equipping you to implement changes that feel right for your community building.
• Track record you can trust – We help rural communities achieve real results. From helping communities bring forward affordable housing and delivering neighbourhood plans to habitat improvements and community consultations; we’ve been involved in all aspects of rural community life, helping communities realise their ambitions.
• Tailored to rural life – We understand that rural halls aren’t just buildings – they’re gathering places, lifelines and the backbone of village life. That’s why our advice balances affordability with community impact.

What to do next

• Get in touch – Email me at oli.bachini@cambsacre.org.uk or call me on 01353 865039 and I’ll arrange a time that works for you.
• Send some initial data – To tailor our recommendations to your building we need to understand your current energy usage and hall occupancy. We will work with you to gather this information before the audit visit.
• Walk through together – I’ll visit your building, we’ll talk, and I’ll make initial observations which can help to identify quick wins.
• A personalised audit report – You will get an energy audit report, tailored for your building which sets out key recommendations in language that’s clear, simple and gives you the confidence to make informed decisions.
• Choose your path – Some groups start with small, no-cost fixes; others opt for more significant investment. Either way, you’ll have a clear, feasible plan.
• We support you all the way – From help with buying decisions to applying for grants, we’ll stick with you, so your audit doesn’t just sit in a drawer, it delivers impact.

In summary

Your community building is more than just bricks and mortar, it’s a place of connection, celebration, learning and memory. A free energy audit means you can safeguard that space for now and the future, while saving money, reducing emissions and making your venue more welcoming and accessible.

I’d love to hear from you and help you take the next step. Together, we can ensure your community building is a sustainable, thriving hub for years to come.