Sustainable living in Tijnje: how subsidies made the difference

Franke and Lien Vaartjes enjoy living in their nearly 100-year-old home in Tijnje. However, the house presented a number of challenges. It was poorly insulated and their gas consumption was around 2,400 m³ per year. Franke: "That resulted in high monthly costs. We wanted to do something about it."

Conversation with the energy coach and energy scout

They had already taken some steps: the front door had been replaced and a quote had been obtained for HR++ glass. However, the house remained damp and draughty, especially around the floor.

Help from the village

Through a door-to-door campaign, Franke and Lien came into contact with Ernst de Groot, an energy coach from the village. He inspected their home and gave them practical tips on how to save energy.
"Among other things, Ernst installed radiator foil and gave us lots of useful advice. That meant we immediately started seeing the first benefits."

Ernst also put them in touch with Jehonnes van der Heide, an energy consultant at the municipality. Jehonnes provided detailed advice on the possibilities for making the home more sustainable and on the financial arrangements. "After talking to Jehonnes and Ernst, we had a much better understanding of the subsidies available and how to finance such a renovation. We also gained new insights into the entire sustainability process." With this information, Franke and Lien decided to apply for a subsidy through the Local Insulation Approach, with Jehonnes' guidance.

Greater comfort and lower costs

Thanks to the subsidy, a large number of windows have now been replaced and the floor has been insulated. "We immediately noticed a big difference, both in terms of comfort and our energy costs."

Highly recommended for other homeowners

Franke and Lien are very satisfied with the process and the help provided by the energy coach and energy scout. "We can wholeheartedly recommend other people to take advantage of this subsidy."