If you want to install renewable technologies, it may not be obvious which options to choose for the greatest benefits to your energy bill and carbon emissions. The answer may depend on the individual property, its size and location, your budget, and other work you are intending to do.
There are a number of local and web-based solutions to help you in your decisions:
- If you are serious about installing renewables, but not sure which to go for choose a company to give you a quotation that installs a number of technologies, as they will be able to advise if any are unsuitable for your situation, and give comparable quotes for those technologies which may be practical. See our list of 'Companies and installers' under 'Where to find help'..
- Local company Active Energy can provide a bespoke assessment of your property's potential for installing various renewable technologies, and their financial viability.
- Encraft provide a service of individually-tailored, impartial and professional technical advice on low carbon energy options. You can calculate the costs and benefits of various renewable technologies using their free on-line tools. For each renewable technology you can see the effects of changing variables, showing energy, carbon and cost savings. It also shows the effect of changing fuel prices on cost savings. A comprehensive site visit and consultation service is also available.
- The Energy Saving Trust has devised a Home Energy Generation Selector to help householders decide which technology is most suitable for their individual needs.
- If you are considering renewable heat technologies, the government's own Renewable Heat Incentive Calculator will provide an estimate of likely payments under the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive scheme.