Retrofitting your home can reduce energy bills and have positive impacts on the environment. But don't take our word for it. Two new case studies from Somerset prove that anyone can enjoy a warm home this winter on a budget, if they have the time and motivation.

Serena from Glastonbury transformed her ex-council house over time. Her patience paid off as she now makes annual savings on bills and her home produces very low carbon emissions.

Serena said: "I've been aware of climate change since the 1970s and have gradually been adapting my lifestyle year-on-year. When I bought my former council house, I started making it more energy efficient so that now it is as close as possible to zero-carbon."

Read her full story here: retrofitsomerset.info/somerset-green-homes-serenas-story.

In South Somerset, Sarah and Richard's driving force to retrofit their home was to create a cleaner world for their children. They learnt valuable lessons on their journey to ensure their home was fit for purpose before investing in big changes. Find out how they did it here: retrofitsomerset.info/somerset-green-homes-sarah-and-richards-story.

Cllr Richard Pinnock, Portfolio Holder for Housing Services, said: "It's great to hear from people who have been through the process of retrofitting their homes from start to finish and who are now experiencing the benefits of that investment. I hope these case studies will inspire others to consider such home improvements.

"There are many free and low-cost ways to reduce bills. Be sure to visit our Somerset Energy Saver website to find out what financial assistance is available to support you through your retrofitting journey, so you can experience the long-term benefits of low bills and low environmental impacts in the future."

The success stories have been released ahead of Fuel Poverty Awareness Day (2 December). They demonstrate how effective measures such as insulation, double glazed windows, air source heat pumps or solar panels can improve the energy efficiency of homes.

You may have the motivation to make changes, but where do you begin? Try the Somerset Energy Saver website for free and low-cost energy-saving hints and tips and also find out about what financial assistance may be available for retrofitting.

If you don't have access to the internet, you can contact the Centre for Sustainable Energy and speak to an energy adviser. The number is 0800 038 5730.