FACTSHEETS

Information You Should Know

The UK's housing sector produces approximately 27% of the total CO2 emissions for the UK, with a further 15% coming from transport; that's 42% of all UK CO2 emissions . Therefore each of the 25 million homes in the UK, in addition to other public and private buildings and businesses should play an important role in tackling climate change by generating on-site power.

A note on these factsheets:
These guides are not intended to be a comprehensive source of information regarding renewable energy, but rather a brief introduction to each of the technologies available. For more detailed information please refer to the 'Further Information' section at the back of the booklet.
Information on system costs and other statistics has been sourced from the Energy Saving Trust and the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, and is correct at the time of writing.

A note on planning:
It is strongly suggested that you speak to your local planning department about any microgeneration you wish to install. Information you should provide in order to help them determine whether your installation requires planning permission should consist of:
•Full address of the property concerned
•Technical specification of the proposed installation (including photographs of the site if possible)
•Diagram of where it will be sited, etc.
•A map of your house and of your closest neighbours; this can be hand drawn providing it is roughly to scale

Additionally if your property is listed or within a conservation area further regulations may apply.

Before installing renewable energy into your home or building project it is very important that the demand for energy has been reduced as much as possible, particularly when providing space and water heating. By insulating your home and making it generally more energy efficient, the potential average and peak demands on energy will be reduced. This means that equipment of lower ratings can be installed; generally costing less to buy, install, maintain and run, may take up less space, and may work more efficiently throughout the year.

It is important to get multiple installers quotes before having new equipment fitted, in order to obtain the best deal. By having at least 3 different quotes from three different companies any decision you make will be better informed, and less likely to leave you out of pocket. If in any doubt, contact West Wales ECO Centre for advice and guidance on installing domestic renewable energy.

These factsheets can be downloaded in their orignal booklet format - a 26 page PDF document, 400Kbs.

©2008 West Wales ECO Centre