One of the biggest steps you can take to having a greener home is to produce your own electricity. There are a number of ways in which you can do this, which we have detailed below.
Wind Turbines
The UK receives 40% of all of Europe’s wind, so we should really make the most of it. There are two types of domestic wind turbines available – mast-mounted, and roof-mounted, which are smaller. If you have a system that is connected to the National Grid then you can make money from the power you generate; if you’re not connected you can store power in a battery for when there is no wind.
Is it right for me?
You need to live in a fairly exposed area – if your property is sheltered by trees or large buildings, you won’t get enough wind. An average windspeed of at least 5m/s is required. Planning permission is usually required, so check before you install a system. Systems cost between £2000 for small, roof-mounted turbines up to £24,000 for a large mast. See the Energy Saving Trust’s wind power pages for more information.
Solar Electricity
Photovaltic (PV) solar panels use the sun’s energy to generate electricity, and although they will produce more electricity on in strong sunlight, they will even work on a cloudy day.
Panels can be attached to a roof or wall, and are now available in tiles and even transparent cells that can be used in conservatories. You can make money by selling surplus energy with a feed in tariff.
Is it right for me?
You need a roof or wall that faces south, or within 90 degrees of it, and that isn’t overshadowed by trees or other buildings. The roof needs to be sturdy as the panels are not light. Systems aren’t cheap, although they have come down a lot in price over recent years. An average system will cost around £12,000. However some companies are now offering free or reduced installation of panels in exchange for reduced electricity bills – the company providing the panels will profit from any surplus energy generated, but it might be worth considering for the discount on your bill. See the Energy Saving Trust’s solar electricity pages for more information.
Hydroelectricity
If you are lucky enough to have a river or stream running through your property, you could harness the power of the water to create electricity. If you’re looking at moving to a really remote area that’s off the national grid, then this could be an option for you.
Is it right for me?
You need a fairly fast-flowing water course, and you need to have the right to build around it – if your property borders a river you may not be able to get permission. If the water flow varies a lot during the year you might not be able to get the most of a hydro system. Costs for these systems vary a lot, but you could be facing something like £20,000. See the Energy Saving Trust’s hydroelectricity pages for more information.
Micro Combined Heat and Power (Micro CHP)
If you are thinking of getting a new boiler, you might want to consider Micro CHP – basically a boiler which generates electricity as it works. The system produces a lot more heat than electricity, but any green energy you produce is a bonus and it could be enough to power the lights and appliances in your home. Installation is very easy, as Micro CHP units are generally the same size as a standard boiler, although you will need an electrician to get involved in the installation.
Is it right for me?
If you have a modern property with full insulation that doesn’t require much heating, then a Micro CHP may not be suitable. However, if you live in a big old house that can’t be insulated and takes a lot to heat, then it may be the perfect solution. Typical costs are around £5,500. See the Energy Saving Trust’s Micro CHP pages for more information.
Other Options
If you want to use green energy but don’t have a property suitable for any of the above methods, you can look at home heating options – see our Heating section for more information.
Many electricity providers now offer Green tariffs, where all or a portion of your electricity comes from green energy – you can review and compare tariffs online.
If there is any specific information you can not find on our site, please use our Ask the Experts facility or e-mail us.