My Vision  

Once upon a time, I was the director of a printing company. Re-evaluating my life in my early 40s, I decided I wanted to make a difference, and a call for volunteers to build one of Cumbria’s first straw bale buildings changed everything.  

My involvement in the wonderful Footprint building in Windermere encouraged me to pursue an MSc at the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT). Though I was initially thinking of pursuing a career in renewable energy (because of my engineering background), my studies soon led me to realise that small-scale renewable energy was really the “icing on the cake”. What was really needed was an understanding of how buildings perform – particularly existing buildings and what to do with them. I got engrossed in insulation when I had a light bulb moment. I realised that air movement inside buildings and through building fabric – summarised by the word “airtightness” –  is key to building performance, whatever its age. 

My academic work explored how pre-1900 homes deal with ventilation, condensation, and moisture, all of which influence how buildings perform. My time at CAT was life-transforming and the second most important thing to have ever happened to me – the first one being the birth of my daughter! 

My Engineering Background 

I hold a variety of qualifications including Passivhaus Consultant, Passivhaus Tradesperson, and Level 2 Building Thermographer. My expertise has evolved through using my engineering background, practical experience, academic research, and participation in various industry platforms. This enthusiasm for driving change led me to explore the trade-offs between ventilation, health, building fabric, and energy in homes, with a focus on the impact of open fireplaces. 

I realised just how many wrongful assumptions are made about buildings. Without testing for a baseline at the beginning of a retrofit, money will be spent unwisely and unnecessarily. More testing is needed to help the building specifiers, help the contractors, and to enable home-owners to better understand their properties.  

Sharing my Knowledge 

I’ve conducted webinars on sustainability and engaged in in-house training programs. My YouTube channel, “Diane Hubbard – The Home Energy Doctor,” offers practical wisdom and guidance.  

The fact that I’m invited to test homes nationwide demonstrates how much homeowners want to make a positive impact on the environment and improve their quality of life. I take a very practical approach to home testing – I speak in plain English and I give homeowners the confidence to take practical steps towards lowering their energy bills and reducing their carbon footprint. 

Community Involvement 

I believe that community involvement is vital for wide-scale carbon reduction. I speak at community events and assist local community groups. I’ve been involved in delivering projects and engagement activities on home energy efficiency with organisations such as Cumbria Action for Sustainability (CAfS), People Powered Retrofit, and webinars for institutions like The Green Register and The Landmark Trust.  

I’m a member of the AECB and organise the Cumbria AECB Professionals Network. I also volunteer on the Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership Buildings Group, tasked with developing the decarbonisation strategy for the buildings of Cumbria.  

Through these channels, my aim is to raise awareness and inspire action for sustainable living. 

Join the Movement 

At Home Energy Doctor, our mission extends beyond consultancy. We’re here to empower individuals to transform their homes into energy-efficient sanctuaries. We welcome those who share our commitment to sustainability, whether you’re a homeowner looking to reduce your carbon footprint or a professional aspiring to join our cause. 

Together, we can turn the vision of a sustainable, energy-efficient future into a reality. Join us on this journey of change and transformation.