Renewable energy
Renewable energy sources include solar water heating, solar photovoltaic, wind, wood fuel, and ground source heat pumps. Unlike fossil fuels such as coal, gas and oil, renewable energy sources will never run out. In addition, they don't produce greenhouse gases.
Which technologies should I install?
Before installing any type of renewable energy system, it is important to make your property as energy efficient as possible. The Energy Saving Trust provides advice on energy efficiency. Using their Home Energy Check tool can help you to find out how to get lower energy bills and a more comfortable home
Solar water heating
Solar thermal panels on a south facing roof can provide around a third of your home's hot water needs. Energy saving Trust advice on solar water heating.
Wood fuel heating
A good option to consider if you have no access to natural gas as a fuel. You will need space for the boiler and fuel storage. Wood fuel can come in the forms of logs, chips or pellets. Energy saving Trust advice on wood fuelled heating.
Heat pumps
Ground source and air source heat pumps move energy from the ground or air to your heating system. They work best with under-floor heating. The pump uses electricity, but the heating system produces 3-4 times more energy than it uses. Energy Saving Trust advice on grounds source heat pumps
Solar photovoltaic (PV)
Solar PV systems produce electricity from sunlight. A typical domestic system can provide over 40% of the electricity used by a typical household. Energy Saving Trust advice on solar electricity. Read more on installation of solar panels at a domestic property and whether you require planning permission.
Wind turbines
Domestic small-scale wind turbines can be integrated into the national electricity grid or operate as stand alone devices. To be effective they should be sited away from trees, buildings and other obstructions to the prevailing wind. Energy Saving Trust advice on wind turbines.
Renewable energy tariffs
Feed in Tariff
The government’s Feed in Tariff scheme closed to new applicants in 2019. For information the scheme visit the Ofgem website.
Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)
The Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive is a financial incentive scheme for householders installing certain types of hot water and heating systems, including eligible heat pumps, biomass boilers and solar thermal systems. Call 0300 123 1234 for advice.
Renewable energy planning information
In some cases, renewable energy equipment can be installed without planning permission. This depends on the type of technology to be installed and the building's location. Find out more with the Planning Portal interactive guides.