Heat Pumps work by extracting energy from the air or the ground and converting it into heat for your home. They can work with existing central heating systems or underfloor heating. Heat pumps do require some electricity to run, but with conversion efficiencies of between 300 and 500% (meaning that for every unit of electricity used you get 3 to 5 units of heat), it is a far more efficient and renewable way to heat your home. Heat pumps receive support from the Renewable Heat Incentive from April 2011.

Micro-Combined Heat and Power is an innovative new product which provides heating just like your existing boiler and looks similar too. It also helps cut electricity bills by generating low carbon electricity in your home. The micro-combined heat and power boiler burns gas using around 70 to 80% of the energy value of the gas for heat; between 10 and 25% is then converted into electricity. The remainder (usually 5 to 15%) is lost in the flue gases, again similar to a standard gas boiler.

Wind turbines come in a wide range of sizes. Small to medium sized, pole mounted turbines can produce a good financial return when located at windy sites with a clear air flow. As the wind turns the blades of the turbine, a generator is driven providing electricity which can be either used within the home or exported back to the grid. With freedom from planning red tape just around the corner, generating energy from wind is about to become easier than ever before.

Solar water heating is the most widespread household renewable technology in the UK requiring no planning application, minimal maintenance and providing long term benefits. Solar panels (collectors) fitted to the roof of your property collect heat from the sun and this heat is typically used to warm water stored in a hot water cylinder. Solar heating receives support from the Renewable Heat Incentive from April 2011.

Wood fuelled heating systems (sometimes known as Biomass heating) can be ideal if you live off the gas grid. A wood fuelled boiler could provide all of the heating and hot water needs of your home, whilst helping to reduce CO2 emissions through use of sustainable fuel sources. Wood fuelled heating receives support from the Renewable Heat Incentive from April 2011.