Renewable energy
What technologies are available for a typical household?
As gas and electricity prices increase due to shortages in non renewable resources more people are thinking about becoming energy self sufficient.
A range of measures are now available on the market including solar water heaters, photo voltaic panels, ground source heat pumps and micro wind turbines.
All of these measures will help cut running costs and reduce a household's 'carbon footprint'.
Can I get a grant to help with the cost?
The Low Carbon Buildings Programme aims to provide grants to anyone interested in micro generation and renewable energy for their home.
In the recent budget it was announced that a further £50m would be allocated towards providing renewable technology for domestic users. A number of technologies are eligible for grants including micro wind turbines, solar photo voltaic panel and solar water heaters. For more information please go to the Energy Savings Trust website for a fact sheet on each product.
What are the costs and benefits?
It is worth noting that installation costs can vary depending on which measure you choose. Therefore the payback may be longer for certain measures. This will also depend on the cost of the contractor, the amount of grant available and whether you are installing on an existing building or incorporating it into a new dwelling.
However, in recent years the costs of solar panels and other technologies have come down significantly as take up has increased. The latest panels are also generally more efficient thereby converting more of the sun's rays into energy.
Don't forget that any surplus electricity produced (for example bright sunny days in the Summer) can be sold back to the National Grid (though not at the normal tariff).
So how can I access grants and further information on renewables?
The Energy Efficiency Advice Centre will have the latest information on which will be the most cost effective measure for your circumstances and how you can get grants for the work.
Phone: 0800 512012 |