Renewable energy sources can support you with supplying zero carbon energy that can be used to power your homes electricity or heat your homes.
As the globe attempts to accelerate the reduction of carbon emissions, decarbonising energy systems is argued as one of the most important tasks to address this issue and renewable energy uptake is the front runner of this task. Therefore having renewable energy in your homes can significantly support the wider progress being made to clean energy transitions that also support you in obtaining key energy efficiency benefits!
To improve your homes energy efficiency with the uptake of renewable energy, there are two options to explore which are solar panels and heat pumps.
SOLAR PANELS
Solar panels can be a domestic renewable energy source which can be applied as a residential roof-top system which generates energy by capturing and absorbing the Sun’s solar energy which is converted into electricity.
Specifically, residential properties can install Solar Photovoltaics (PV).
The kWp of a solar array will depend on the size, type and medium of panels – but 3 or 4 kWp array is typical for an average roof. Additionally, any extra electricity produced could be sold back to the grid or could be stored for later use.
HEAT PUMPS
A heat pump is a both energy efficient and low carbon heating system which acts as a device that can transfer naturally occurring heat from the air, ground or water outside transferring it inside using electricity as its power source. There are two types of heat pumps which may vary in how they suit you depending on your ideal budget and the amount of outdoor space you have.
Air Source Heat Pump = extracts and transfers outside air heat to the water in your central heating.
Ground source Heat Pump = extracts and transfers outside ground heat to heat up your home.
Heat pumps can often achieve a 200-600% efficiency rate compared to an A-rated boiler around 90%. Heat pumps can be enhanced further when accompanied by solar panels as your electricity generated by solar can be used to heat your homes. A very well insulated home also enhances your heat pumps.
Further Information regarding heat pumps can be found on the Energy Saving Trust website!
