Getting Started

Step 1: Assess Your Home

Before exploring renewable energy options:

• Review 12 months of energy bills to understand usage
• Note your home's age, insulation levels, and heating system
• Consider your roof's orientation, angle, and potential shading
• Think about your long-term plans for the property

Step 2: Set Your Priorities

Decide what matters most:

• Cost savings vs environmental impact
• Quick payback vs long-term investment
• Energy independence vs grid connection
• Maintenance requirements vs convenience

Understanding Your Options

Solar Panels (Photovoltaic)

Best For: South-facing roofs with minimal shading

Investment: £4,000-12,000 for typical systems

Payback: 8-12 years typically

Savings: £300-800 annually

Lifespan: 25+ years with minimal maintenance

Heat Pumps (Air Source)

Best For: Well-insulated homes, replacing oil/LPG heating

Investment: £8,000-15,000 (£5,000 government grant available)

Payback: 10-20 years depending on current heating

Savings: Varies greatly by current system

Lifespan: 15-20 years

Ground Source Heat Pumps

Best For: Rural properties with garden space

Investment: £15,000-25,000

Payback: 15-25 years

Savings: Higher than air source pumps

Lifespan: 20-25 years

Choosing the Right Installer

Essential Qualifications

• MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certification
• Relevant trade qualifications (electrical, plumbing, heating)
• Public liability insurance (minimum £2 million)
• Professional indemnity insurance

Red Flags to Avoid

• Door-to-door sales with high-pressure tactics
• Requests for large upfront payments
• Prices significantly above or below market rates
• No fixed address or proper business registration
• Unwillingness to provide references

Questions to Ask Installers

1. Can you provide recent customer references?
2. What warranties do you offer on equipment and installation?
3. How do you handle maintenance and repairs?
4. What's included in your quote (scaffolding, electrical work, etc.)?
5. How long will the installation take?
6. What planning permissions or notifications are needed?

Financial Considerations

Government Support

• Boiler Upgrade Scheme: £5,000 for heat pumps
• Smart Export Guarantee: Payment for excess solar electricity
• Council Tax Reductions: Some authorities offer discounts
• VAT Reductions: 0% VAT on solar panels, 5% on heat pumps

Financing Options

• Cash purchase (best returns)
• Green mortgages and remortgaging
• Personal loans (compare rates carefully)
• Installer finance (read terms carefully)

Hidden Costs to Consider

• Scaffolding and access equipment
• Electrical upgrades and new consumer units
• Building control fees and notifications
• Insurance premium changes
• Maintenance and servicing

Making the Decision

Getting Quotes

• Obtain 3-4 detailed quotes for comparison
• Ensure all quotes include same scope of work
• Ask for breakdown of equipment vs labour costs
• Check what's included (warranties, maintenance, etc.)

Comparing Options

Consider beyond just price:

• Equipment quality and efficiency ratings
• Warranty terms and installer reputation
• Projected performance and savings
• Aesthetic impact and planning requirements

Final Checks

• Verify installer credentials independently
• Check building insurance covers new equipment
• Understand warranty terms and registration process
• Plan for any disruption during installation

After Installation

Commissioning

• Ensure proper system commissioning and testing
• Register warranties and guarantees
• Understand how to operate and monitor your system
• Keep all documentation and certificates

Ongoing Maintenance

• Follow manufacturer maintenance schedules
• Monitor system performance regularly
• Address issues promptly to maintain warranties
• Plan for eventual replacement of components

Your Complete Guide to Renewable Energy