Renewable energy is energy generated from a “renewable” source, ie a source that is replenished naturally unlike the fossil fuels coal, oil and gas which once we burn them to produce heat or electricity are gone forever.
Renewable sources include the sun, wind, water, biomass, and heat taken from the air, ground and water. Renewable energy technologies can be divided into Renewable Heat and Renewable Electricity.
Before considering generating your own energy at home it is important that you do everything you can to save energy. Generally you will save much more money and carbon dioxide by saving energy at home than you will by generating your own, for a smaller financial outlay.
When your home is fully insulated and you have done what you can to save energy, you are ready to consider generating your own energy. It is useful to be aware that approximately 80% of home energy use is for heat and hot water, and around 20% is for lights, appliances and cooking.
Grants are available for householders, public sector and charitable organisations, and community based organisations. You will need to use approved installers and approved products.