Energy and renewables

GREEN living is becoming easier with the renewable energy industry at an all-time high. Innovative new products are emerging all the time and finally government subsidies may be available to support this development.

Think insulation

Ensuring your property has the best insulation possible can be the most cost effective energy improvement. Self-builders can benefit from choosing materials such as Warmcel, a recycled sustainable insulation with a high thermal mass and 30% improved air tightness. ‘Annual energy cost for a house built to current building regulation insulation levels is likely to cost around £900,’ said Gareth Major, Design & Marketing at PYC Group. ‘If the levels of insulation are increased to a higher level, the annual energy costs would be less than £100. Over the lifetime of a building, at today’s fuel prices, cost savings are likely to exceed £50,000. An initial investment of improving the building fabric by increasing the insulation thickness will not only save the occupant money but enhance their overall quality of life by giving them a warmer, more comfortable environment to live in.’

Heating Options

The advancement of renewable heating options over the last few years have been significant. Well-insulated homes are best suited to an air or ground source heat pump. To reduce the cost of high hot water usage, consider a solar thermal system or hot water heat pump. Under-floor heating that is integrated with an air source heat pump will make a long-term difference to your heating system efficiency.

Electricity Options

Solar PV is the obvious choice for renewable electricity for your self-build. Panel prices have recently dropped making it a more affordable solution on the road to self-generation. The UK has a Feed-in Tariff provided by the government too, which rewards you for solar installation and gives 20 years of tax-free income from the power you generate- that’s on top of the savings you’ll be making on electricity bills. If your property doesn’t have a south-facing roof, solar panels are still an option. You could consider panels on another out building/garage or having a ground-mounted system in your garden. If you are completing a self-build, consider getting renewable energy experts on board to assess your plans and advise on how to make them more effective.