Solar Panel Quoter... The Blog

Solar tariff back to 43p after Government Appeal defeat

2012-01-25T17:14:00.000Z

The Government lost their solar tariff appeal and the tariff rate is now back to 43p, whilst the Government consider an appeal to the Supreme Court.

Read more about the solar panel tariff announcement here.

Make the most of a combination of low installation rates and the high 43p solar panel tariff and get your instant online solar panel installation quote now - click here.

We've Moved!

2011-12-20T10:31:00.000Z

YOUR FAVOURITE RENEWABLE ENERGY BLOG HAS MOVED.

YOU'LL FIND ALL PREVIOUS POSTS PLUS NEW DAILY POSTS AT OUR NEW HOME:

WWW.RENEWABLEENERGYQUOTER.CO.UK

Hopefully we won't loose you in the move but it was a necessary step after Google removed our blog and 3 years worth of daily content last week. Fortunately, we were able to point out their error and get things re-instated late yesterday evening.

However, not wanting to leave things to chance, we've established our daily digest of news and features from the Renewables World on it's very own website.

Please visit us and bookmark our new website now.

We look forward to seeing you very soon.

Regards - The Editorial Team.

Analysts have got it wrong - solar is even cheaper

2011-12-13T08:00:00.000Z

"analyse this"

Queen's University in Canada survey into the real cost of implementing solar, reckons the analysts have got it wrong and solar energy is intact already achieving grid parity in some regions.

Cleantechnica.com reports how the study found that analysts were working on costings from 2009, when there's been a huge drop (as much as 70%) in installation prices.

Also, they're working on lifetime spans of 20 years for panels when many newer installations are expected to achieve a working life of 30 years.

Previous costings have also factored a 1% drop in solar panel efficiency per year, when the figure for today's modern units is more like between 0.1% and 0.2% drop in efficiency.

And all this is before you start considering the recent energy price rises.

photo credit: mikael altemark

Offshore Wind without the sinking feeling

2011-12-12T08:00:00.000Z

The first floating offshore wind turbine has been deployed for field tests at sea.

Renewable Energy World reports that the world first is a 2MW wind turbine that can be deployed without heavy machinery, normally associated with off-shore wind farm construction.

Special 'Windfloat' technology enables the semi-submersible structure to operate by decreasing wave and wind induced motion.

This amazing piece of engineering was constructed onshore before being towed over 217 miles out to it's resting point for trials which will include a full production capacity test.

Read more at Renewable Energy World here.

photo credit: brett marlow

Last installations on the 43p tariff take place

2011-12-09T08:00:00.000Z

you haven't missed the boat!

Bit of an 'end of an era' this week as the last PV solar panel installations take place across the UK, that will qualify for the pre 12th December tariff of 43p.

However, homeowners needn't think they've missed the boat as reports reach us that Chinese manufacturing is forcing the prices of solar panels and inverters down.

Only a few months ago, we saw some solar companies offering 4kW systems at a then incredible price of £10,999.

With the new tariffs in mind and the fall in hardware prices, just last week we saw one company offering a 4kW system from £8,500.

What does this mean for the homeowner? Whether you've already gone ahead with an installation or you're planning one in the New Year, the return on your investment, based on the current new tariffs should mean there's still enough of a financial incentive to go ahead.

And prices may even fall further in the New Year.

Solar Panel Quoter - Instant online solar panel quotes is constantly updated with the latest industry prices but don't forget, the prices it gives you won't include any individual installation company deals or offers.

photo credit: simon clancy

Dreaming of a 'Green' Christmas

2011-12-08T08:00:00.000Z

If you've resisted the festive urge to be the first to get your Christmas decorations up and alight, then good news - we've got some handy tips to help you save energy this Christmas.

Did you know it's now possible to buy energy saving and solar powered rope lights and other exterior Christmas lights? Solar lights that charge during the day and timer technology to switch them on just in the evening.

We all know leaving interior lights on when no-one's in the room is wasteful, so don't leave your tree lights on either. A typical 100 string Christmas tree light left on for 10 hours a day, over the 12 days of Christmas will produce enough CO2 to inflate 60 balloons.

LED lights use a fraction of the power (90%) of normal Christmas lights.

Read more of this article on the Home Improvement's Blog - click here.

photo credit: cindy shebley

Oxford City Council buildings to get solar

2011-12-07T08:00:00.000Z

Spotted in the Oxford Mail...

A plan to install solar panels on 5 Oxford City Council buildings will go ahead, despite the project not breaking even for 15 years.

The £665,000 installation will cut costs, and attract Government tariffs which will see the Council make £1.9 million over the 25 year tariff lifespan. This includes energy savings.

Read the full story here.

photo credit: tejvan pettinger

Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) tariff payments start.

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000Z

"RHI pays you to reduce your carbon footprint"

Renewable Heat Incentive payments are now available to businesses and community generators across Britain in the first round of the Government's heat tariff payment scheme.

Renewable heat sources qualifying include biomass boilers, solar thermal and heat pumps installed since 15th July 2009.

Tariffs at launch are 7.9p per kWh for biomass boilers, 8.5p per kWh for solar thermal and up to 4.5p per kWh for heat pumps.

The tariffs will be paid for a period of 20 years.

Delays to the launch of the scheme were due to compatibility issues with EU state aid rules.

Householders will also be able to apply in the 2nd phase of the RHI rollout - timing is yet to be confirmed but the industry believes it will be next October (2012).

The £860 million set aside to make the RHI payments will, according to Government sources, support 14,000 industrial installations by 2020 and 112,000 installation in the commercial and public sector.

Emission cuts will be in the region of 43 million tonnes of carbon by 2020 - that's equivalent to the annual emissions of 19 typical gas power stations.

Details of how the energy will be metered and full tariff details can be found on the DECC website - click here.

Don't forget the 'Quoter family of websites can offer you an instant online quote for both solar thermal panels and air & ground source heat pumps.

photo credit: parksy1964

Did the Solar Tariff cuts raise the solar profile?

2011-12-02T08:00:00.000Z

"get your foot on the solar tariff ladder"

The number of newly MCS accredited companies continues to grow and our own Solar Panel Quoter - Instant on line solar panel quotes - website has never been busier.

Recalling an earlier figure that months after the launch of the solar feed-in tariffs, 65% of homeowners were still completely unaware the tariffs existed, you do wonder whether the recent high media profile given to the December 12th tariff reductions, has actually done the industry a favour (and furthered 'green' awareness).

Or are homeowners, having seen one tariff reduction, keen to get a foot on the solar tariff ladder before April 2012's full review?

Click here to get your own instant solar panel installation quote today. Our online quotes reflect the new lower installation prices being charged as the cost of the panels themselves continues to fall.

photo credit: ruthanne reid

Average weekly spend on transport was £64.90 in 2010

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000Z

The Office for National Statistics released household expenditure figures for 2010, broken down into weekly averages across the UK.

If you've ever wondered where your money goes and why you never seem to have any left, then this report might provide a very big clue.

Of course, it's no real surprise, given the ever rising fuel costs at the pumps that in 2010, the biggest weekly expense for households was fuel - with average transport costs of £64.90 per week. That's up by £6.50 on 2009 - an increase of 11%.

Second highest category of expenditure was housing, fuel and power, which increased to £60.40 per week.

Households in rural areas averaged a higher spend than urban areas - due mostly to transport costs.

Total weekly costs on average were £474 per week, with rural households paying out an average of £506.30 per week.

At an average £4.30 a week on pet food, I'm afraid the pets will just have to go!

Read the Office for National Statistics full report here.

photo credit: little yiye

Renewables surpasses fossil power plant spend for 1st time

2011-11-30T08:00:00.000Z

Fossil fuel takes a 'battering'

The Los Angeles Times reports that, for the first time, investment in renewable energy surpassed the investment on fossil fuel new power plants.

"Electricity from the wind, sun, waves and biomass drew $187 billion last year compared with $157 billion for natural gas, oil and coal"

Read the Los Angeles Times full report here.

photo credit: jon bennett

Imminent solar tariff change cancels Somerset solar farm plan

2011-11-29T08:00:00.000Z

Somerset fields left to the apples...

With the solar tariff reductions imminent, Energy firm Ecotricty announced it's plans to scrap a planned solar farm in Somerset, blaming the tariff cuts.

The 26 acre site would have generated enough energy to power 1,500 homes, in an industry which has seen 25,000 new jobs created in the last 18 months.

The company says the reduction from 29p to less than 9p per kW in tariff payments for commercial installations of this nature, meant the development has had to be dropped.

The Government has stated it had to do something to secure the long term viability of the tariff system by reducing the tariffs paid. Domestic installations have been enjoying a tariff rate of 43p per kW. New installations from the 12th December will get a rate of just 21p per kW.

Falling installation prices and more efficient panels should see homeowners get a decent return on their investment, albeit over a slightly longer period. However, for commercial enterprises where thousands would have been invested in acres of solar panels, the cost reductions do not outweigh the massive investment up front, it seems.

photo credit: epsos.de

Power showers use twice the water of a bath

2011-11-28T08:00:00.000Z

That's the shock finding in a new study by Unilever into household water usage.

The study researched over 2,600 showers across a 100 households - the results will challenge our pre-conceptions on water and energy conservation in the home.

During the study, researchers found that whilst the average bath uses 80 litres of water, taking a long shower or using a power shower can result in up to 136 litres of water being used.

To put that figure into context, for an average family of 4, that equals 200,000 litres of water a year at a cost of £918 in water and electricity use.

Non power showers, which use less water, and shorter showering times, resulted in an energy and water bill of just £416 a year.

What's worrying is the fact that power showers currently make up 20% of the shower market and the number is increasing.

Unilever's study concludes by pointing out that water usage, globally, has risen. It's estimated an average person uses 30 litres or water a day more than we did in 1970.

So, if you're remodelling the bathroom or en-suite, think carefully about the type of shower you install. Used sensibly, a non power shower will save more energy and water than a bath.

photo credit: hygiene matters

Could you car share?

2011-11-25T08:00:00.000Z

After spotting somebody on Twitter complaining they'd had to pay £4.50 for a 10 mile bus journey "would've been cheaper to drive - grumble", I wondered just how many motorists that passed the bus stop would have been going to that part of town, the unhappy Tweeter finally got to.

Take that thought a stage further and if you travel to a fairly busy industrial area or shopping area to work, how many of your 'neighbours' live on your regular commute run?

Car sharing's not for everyone, but if you were able to offer someone nearby a lift in of a morning or evening ( as long as you're both flexible, it wouldn't have to be every journey , then you could both halve your commuting fuel costs.

That's worth a little ground work sourcing prospective sharers isn't it?

If you work for a largish employer, you could start by asking your co-workers if they live on or beyond your route?

To make such a car sharing scheme a success, it's important to lay some simple ground rules like:

Last time to notify the driver if you're not going to be making the journey. Nothing worse than waiting for someone who doesn't turn up. (that goes for the driver too).

Taking your turn with the driving (if that's feasible).

Being prepared to be a few minutes flexible on departure times (at both ends of the working day)

Being prepared to trial it and if it doesn't suit, then saying so openly.

Have a look online as well. There are a few journey sharing websites round - particularly when the travel concerns longer distances or events like exhibitions, conferences, concerts and sporting events.

These sites have some useful guidelines for both driver and passenger including a reminder of common sense etiquette, that will make your car-sharing experience one you'll want to repeat.

photo credit: greene connections

Is it No from the Government to Solar Tariff changes?

2011-11-24T09:29:00.001Z

"the No's have it"

It took a few minutes and some patient explanation by a colleague (who's well clued up on Parliamentary procedure) to grasp exactly what yesterdays "No - we're not going to change our minds on the solar tariff cuts" vote actually meant.

Yes - the Government is wanting to change the solar tariff paid to homeowners from 43p to 21p from the 12th December, and that's the figure the solar installation industry is now quoting.

However, the tariff rates are still in a consultation period (until the end of December).

So after that consultation period is up, an actual decision will be made and published on what exactly the tariff will be.

One possible outcome is that the present tariff may actually be kept in force until the review in April 2012. However, with the Government crying 'poverty' and saying that the present tariff rate is unsustainable, if the whole tariff scheme is to survive its full 25 year period, that does seem very very unlikely.

Hidden amongst the transcripts of yesterday's proceedings was the statement that, whatever the rate changes to from the 12th December, that amount will only be guaranteed for new installations until the April 2012 review, when it will change to whatever the new tariff is set at. This had already been hinted at, and indeed taken as read by many.

Those homeowners that have already installed solar and are getting the present 43p tariff are still guaranteed that amount for the full term of the tariff scheme.

So, the best advice is to assume that the solar tariff will reduce to 21p for new installations registered on or after the 12th December until the full review planned for April 2012.

You can read the Governments original tariff reduction announcement here.

It's worth remembering that when the original tariff rates were set by the Labour Government, they were basing their figures on a 5% return on investment to homeowners, based on likely solar panel installation costs. It's estimated given the latest solar costs that the tariff of 21p would still give homeowners a return of between 5% and 7%.

photo credit: andy bullock

Green Deal outlined by Government

2011-11-24T08:30:00.000Z

"Green Deal outlined - Cheers!"

The Green Deal will be about putting energy consumers back in control of their bills and banishing Britain's draughty homes. That was the message from Chris Huhne - Energy & Climate Change Secretary - yesterday as the Government outlined it's Green Deal initiative.

The announcement outlined the three big benefits of the scheme:

1) That every British home will be able to install energy saving measures like insulation and energy efficient boilers at no up-front cost.

2) Energy companies will provide £1.3 billion a year to help people benefit from the scheme, no matter what their income or type of property.

3) The Green Deal is expected to kick-start around £14 billion of private sector investment and could support 65,000+ insulation and construction jobs by 2015.

As an incentive to homeowners to apply for the Green Deal, a cash back of £150 could be available, funded through private sector Green Deal finance.

The installation costs, paid for up front by private sector funding, will be repaid over time out of the energy savings the property makes.

The Secretary went on to state that he wanted to insulate Britain's homes not just from the cold weather, but also from the chill winds of global fossil fuel price rises.

Now we've got to wait for the detail and application process - which will start sometime around October 2012. The Government reckons overall average household energy bills in 2020 will be 7%, or £94, lower than without energy and climate policies.

More information regarding the announcement can be found on the DECC website - click here.

photo credit: jennifer

NOTE: SInce this story was published, later on during the 24th November, the Government announced £200 million of new and additional funding to "provide a special time-limited introductory offer to boost the early uptake of the Government's Green Deal energy efficiency scheme".

It's hoped the offer will encourage early adoption by homeowners, saving them hundreds of pounds in the process.

The Green Deal framework will be launched from October 2012.

More information regarding the extra £200 million can be found on the DECC website - click here

Elephants in living rooms, the rising of machines - Phew!

2011-11-24T08:00:00.000Z

"Hasta-la-vista Baby"

The 'Rise of the Machines' report - you might be forgiven for thinking you'd stumbled across a remake of a Schwarzenegger blockbuster and not a report by the Energy Saving Trust, and yet, 5 years ago, that's exactly the title they gave their report into increasing power usage in the home due to the infiltration of technology and other electrical devices.

Five years later, they've published their follow up report. No not Judgement Day but 'Elephants in the Living Rooms'.

It's a silly title with a huge message - energy consumption in homes around Britain is barely in check as the number of electrical devices requiring charging or a suitable mains plug continues to grow. Computers alone have grown from 30 to 65 million between 2000 and 2009.

We may have energy efficiency ratings for most household appliances, and these have had a very positive effect on overall energy use - the worst culprit - fridges - have dropped from being the number one power guzzler to number 3, and by 2010, are expected to be even more efficient and further down the listings.

And with some devices taking on dual roles - printers that double as scanners etc - it would seem we're well on top of energy use.

Not so - Despite more energy efficient goods, the sheer numbers and the fact that so many are being left on standby rather than being switched off completely, means at todays rates - we could miss our 2020 CO2 emission targets.

As one blogger put it: "the number of everyday devices that seem to need a charger when we go on holiday means a whole bag dedicated to chargers".

Of course there are positives - Laptops, which use only 15% of the energy consumed by a desktop PC, are set to treble in numbers in the next 8 years. And it's very hard to buy a fridge with anything less than a 'B' energy rating (in fact 85% of fridges now sold are 'A' rated).

And of course, we're starting to get the message about not leaving lights on when not in the room - 91% say they are in the habit of turning off lights when not in a room but only two thirds are doing it all the time - sometimes, a little bit more than just the thought is required.

What's the answer? Change our beloved gadget habits? Choose manual operation instead of a remote controlled method? Or just sit in the dark with a candle? The Elephant in the Living Room points out that there is still so much we can do and whilst the electrical devices around our home might be spawning, if we're sensible about not leaving chargers permanently plugged in or TV's, their surround sound and numbers game consoles on standby, then we might just have a chance.

Rather than 'No Problemo' - If we don't re-evaluate our energy usage habits, then it's surely 'Hasta-la-vista Baby'?

photo credit: pasukaru76

Government encourage Warm Front scheme participation as Winter approaches.

2011-11-23T08:00:00.000Z

Warm Front scheme - claim the help!

The Government has called on pensioners and those on low incomes to make sure they claim for the help they're entitled to, to help them keep warm this Winter.

The Warm Front scheme provides grants to people in poorly heated or insulated homes. Grants can be awarded for boiler repairs, new central heating systems and insulation.

If you're eligible, you could apply for up to £3,500 towards the costs of work - up to £6,000 if your home doesn't have mains gas.

Over the next two years, over 90,000 people are expected to be helped by the Warm Front scheme. 2 million have already been helped since the scheme launched in 2000.

To enquire about qualifying, all you have to do is call the Warm Front team on 0800 316 6004. If you're eligible, they'll handle all the paperwork and arrange a survey of your property to work out what measures will be most effective. These are tailored to each individual property.

Insulation measures include loft insulation, draught proofing, cavity wall insulation and hot water tank insulation.

Heating system measures include repairs to existing heating systems, new gas or oil central heating systems, electric storage heaters, electric heaters for bathrooms, conversion of open fireplaces to modern glass fronted fires and timer controls for electric space and water heaters.

Over £110 million has been set aside for 2011 with another £100 million set aside for 2012/2013 for privately owned or rented households in England.

More information can be found on the Department of Energy & Climate Change website.

photo credit: brett holt

Study into Solid Wall Insulation reports

2011-11-22T08:00:00.000Z

"noticeably warmer"

An evaluation of solid wall insulation has been carried out in the Bath & North East Somerset Areas, amid fears that despite the advantages of solid wall insulation to homeowners, many will be put off by the disruption and impact on building appearance.

The study - part published due to a late finish of installations - has found that those homes where previously, residents had been experiencing problems in keeping warm, the standard of heating has improved considerably.

Amongst the results, residents reported feeling warmer, being able to turn down thermostats, experiencing more even heat throughout the property (where previously there had been cold-spots) and noticing properties warming up quicker and retaining that heat for longer.

The report reckons this proves that solid wall insulation - for many older properties, the only viable insulation method possible - despite it's immediate problems during installation, and afterwards, can play a major part in reducing CO2 emissions and reducing fuel poverty.

You can read the full report here.

photo credit: dringer

Last of the Summer's energy price rises begins...

2011-11-21T08:00:00.000Z

Perhaps the media was full of other stories (or I just missed it), but there seemed to be a distinct lack of fanfare to herald the last of the Summer's announced energy price rises by the big six, which came into effect on the 10th November.

Easier Finance points out that with all the energy rises now in force, more homeowners than ever are facing difficult choices between eating or heating their homes.

"With the average household now facing an energy bill of £1,293 a year, the number living in fuel poverty has rocketed to an incredible 6.9 million."

Their report goes on to say that figures suggest 9 in 10 households - 89% will ration their energy use to save money - that's 16% more than last year.

Some 55%of households risked their health by going without heating at some point last Winter. A figure that looks set to rise.

Taking a few simple and cheap actions could make your home more comfortable - use draught sealing strips around doors and letterboxes. Hang thick curtains across draughty doors or single glazed windows.

Try not to heat rooms you're not living in. Even wearing an extra layer of clothing e.g a jumper, will mean you can comfortably turn down your thermostat a degree or two and still feel warm.

photo credit: ns newsflash

Heat Pump efficiency

2011-11-18T08:00:00.000Z

Air and ground source heat pumps are a tried and trusted technology, but relatively few homeowners have ever heard of them, let alone considered using them to heat their homes or hot water needs, in place of conventional fossil fuel systems.

Properties not on 'mains gas', and relying on oil or LPG fired central heating as well as those properties heated by storage heaters stand to make the most gains from a heat pump installation, but any home will benefit from what is classed as a renewable energy source.

Yes, heat pumps involve an electrical supply to power the pump / heat exchange mechanism, but are highly efficient.

For example, their coefficient of performance (COP) can be anywhere from 300% to 500%. e.g a system requiring 1kW to run might produce 4kW output - a COP of 4 to 1 (an efficiency of 400%).

As the heat pump association points out, the COP figure can vary according to the temperature of the air/water entering the system.

Smaller and more efficient solar energy panel...

2011-11-17T08:00:00.000Z

"help for smaller roofs"

The Green Platform, back in August, reported on efforts by a German based company to produce a smaller panel, that was more efficient.

This would allow homeowners with smaller roofs to still install a large PV panel system on their available roof space.

The makers claim it will also lower installation costs as fewer panels will be required to produce the same output as current larger panel systems.

The panel was revealed at the PVSEC conference in Hamburg in September.

photo credit: bortescristian

Heat pump excitement the cause of erratic posting

2011-11-16T09:54:00.001Z

"another wobbly day"

Apologies to our regular readers, here at Solar Panel Quoter - The Blog, for our rather erratic posting these last few days.

Usually, we feature a new post / story concerning renewable energy every day (Monday to Friday), however two totally separate and opposing events have conspired to prevent that, this week so far.

Firstly, on Monday, we launched our newest online instant quoting website for homeowners interested in getting a quote for either Air Source Heat Pumps or Ground Source Heat Pumps (click the links to try it yourself).

With renewable energy very much in the news - especially with the recent Solar PV tariff cuts announced and the scrambling for installations and information, whilst the solar industry itself plans legal action to get the date in question - 12th December - postponed or at least moved backwards. We're hoping to offer homeowners as much choice and information on all their renewable energy alternatives.

Secondly, and quite unconnected, the Mac I write and manage all the blog material decided to 'through a complete graphics wobbly' over the weekend, resulting in a probable 10 day stay as guests of the Apple repair shop in Sheffield.

Through the miracle of back-ups, normal service is resuming.

We'll be back tomorrow with an article on how a German company is developing a smaller, more efficient panel which could throw a real life-line to those with small roofs, but who still want to install a sizeable solar panel system on it.

photo credit: purple13

Your Air and Ground Source Heat Pump Questions answered

2011-11-14T11:33:00.001Z

To help homeowners control their energy bills even further, or 'go green', we've designed Heat Pump Quoter.

Air and Ground Source Heat Pumps are an alternative renewable energy to solar or wind, and can power your hot water as well as your heating, via underfloor heating, hot air convection or even radiators.

Unlike some renewable energy sources, Heat Pumps are not reliant on wind or sunshine to operate, so you can make the most of this energy efficient, renewable heat source, 24 hours a day, all year around.

Our newest 'Quoter website can offer you an instant online heat pump quote, without the need for salesmen to call on you.

To find out how Heat Pumps work, how suitable they may be for your home and what Government incentives are currently available, read more below...

How do Heat Pumps work?

Imagine a fridge working in reverse - taking the outside temperature of the air or ground and extracting the heat, compressing that heat and then passing it into your home to heat your hot water, underfloor heating, radiator or warm air convection system and that's the science behind Air and Ground Source Heat Pumps.

Air Source Heat Pumps are a small unit (much like a modern air-conditioning unit in size and shape), which fixes to the ground or wall adjacent to the property to be heated.

Ground Source Heat Pumps use heat taken from the ground and involve a series of looped fluid filled tubing buried in trenches within your garden. Because of the trench digging and pipe laying, these systems cost more to install.

Heat Pumps work at generally lower temperatures to more traditional fossil fuel heating so it's important, to make the most of your system, that your home is reasonably insulated before installation begins. What's more, they don't rely on wind or sunshine to function.

How do I get my money back? It's renewable energy right?

Absolutely right. Heat Pumps are a renewable heat source - the kind to be included in the Governments proposed Renewable Heat Incentives which are due to start Autumn 2012 and already included in the Governments current *Renewable Heat Premium Payment scheme.

The tariffs - the money the Government will pay you - will work similarly to the current solar panel feed in tariffs, but nobody knows the exact details yet.

The Government are currently offering a *Renewable Heat Premium Payment scheme to encourage homeowners to install renewable heat sources onto their homes.

The Government are making these one-off payments, to the tune of £1250 for Ground Source systems and £850 for Air Source systems to homeowners, to help them cover the cost of installing these systems. These installation incentives are set to run until 31st march 2012.

What's so green about Heat Pumps?

Sure, Heat Pumps use electricity to run, but the clever bit is they use far less that the energy they output.

The energy is called renewable because the heat is taken from the surrounding air / ground rather than artificially generated through the burning of a fossil fuel.

This means that the CO2 emissions are low compared to an equivalent fossil fuel usage.

What can a Heat Pump heat?

Heat Pumps extract heat from their surroundings, compress it and apply it to a fluid which is then passed into your home. This hot fluid can be used to:

Heat your emersion tank
Power your underfloor heating
Heat specially designed radiators in your home
Power hot air convection heaters.

The systems are responsive and designed to work with thermostats so you can control the heat / water temperature.

Because of that overall lower heat output, if you're using your Heat Pump to power your hot water, you're installers will make sure you have an immersion heater fitted which will be timed to come on once a week for an hour or two, to superheat the water in your tank and kill off any bacteria.

The lower heat output also means you may find it more comfortable to leave the systems on for longer periods.

Specially designed radiators?

Yes, normal 'gas fired' central heating radiators aren't usually large enough to provide the surface area needed for the lower temperature water to effectively transfer enough heat to the radiator to 'radiate' and heat the room.

It may be you decide on a duel system - keeping your existing heating / hot water system but supplementing its heat with your Heat Pump. That will still lower your usual energy bills.

Is my home suitable?

Most properties will be suitable for either a ground or air heat pump system. There's even a water pump system that could draw heat from say a large pond or lake.

Properties which will benefit the most include those that aren't on Mains Gas and use either Oil, LPG or other solid fuel for heating and hot water.

Properties that use storage heaters will also see the same benefits.

Even on properties with gas fired central heating will make a modest return (not including any future tariffs), by preheating hot water tanks etc or replacing the heating source on underfloor heating systems.

Will I need a new immersion tank?

That's a question for your preferred installers when they're conducting their quote survey.

Servicing and maintenance?

Heat pump technology has been around longer than you think. The units themselves require little maintenance other than an annual health check (like a regular gas boiler) and for an Air Source Pump, making sure the area around the pump is free from leaf debris etc.

How big a system will I need?

That depends on how dependent you want to be on its output from totally dependent to treating the system as an auxiliary system. The installation companies will take your wishes along with the size and type of your home and how many of you live within the property, into consideration when conducting their survey prior to quotation.

In conclusion…

Heap Pumps use minimal energy
Produce a steady, reliable renewable heat and hot water source for your home
Aren't reliant on wind or sunshine
Work all year round - 24/7
Government incentives towards installation costs of such systems - up to £1250*
Government expected to launch its Renewable Heat Incentive tariff scheme October 2012
You could earn a regular payment for the renewable heat you produce.
Lower your energy bills
Reduce your homes CO2 Emissions

*Renewable Heat Premium Payments (Governments one-off payments towards your installation costs) are subject to certain criteria. You can find more information on the Energy Saving Trust's website here.

Instant online Air & Ground Source Heat Pump Quotes

2011-11-11T08:00:00.000Z

"Heat Pump Quoter - instant online quotes"

The 'Quoter family of websites proudly announces a NEW 'Quoter website.... Heat Pump Quoter.

Like our other 'Quoter websites, Heat Pump Quoter will give homeowners an instant online quote for both Air and Ground Source Heat Pump installations on their homes.

If you're interested in generating renewable heat for your home, why not give our new website a try? - click here

Heat pumps work like a fridge in reverse - extracting the heat from the surrounding air or ground, compressing it and pumping the resulting heat into your home.

This warm 'source' can be used to heat your hot water, power warm air convection heating, heat your underfloor heating and even run its own 'central heating' radiator system.

At present there are grants of up to £1250 available from the Governments Renewable Heat Premium Payment scheme - running until March 2012.

And the whole renewable industry's hoping Air and Ground Source heat pump systems will feature heavily in the Governments anticipated Renewable Heat Incentives - a bit like the current solar feed-in tariffs - due to come into force in the Autumn of next year (2012).

We're already building a UK network of Air and Ground Source Heat Pump installation companies to put those homeowners, interested in taking their online quote further, in contact with and would welcome applications from any heat pump installers, to join our service.

If you're a Heat Source Pump installer, click here to find out more about Price Engines service.

What it might look like if every roof had solar panels installed

2011-11-10T08:00:00.000Z

Ever wondered what the skyline would look like if every house had solar panels installed on its roof?

The Guardian ran a picture story earlier in the week regarding a massive domestic solar installation on 600 homes in Nottingham.

The large picture, accompanying the story illustrates perfectly just what the skyline would look like - click here.

photo credit: creativity103

Boo-hoo - Girl Guides miss out too, following solar tariff cuts

2011-11-09T08:00:00.000Z

'girls just want to have... solar panels'

Whilst many homeowners rush to get their solar panel installation completed before the tariff cut deadline of next month, spare a thought for the many community based installations that will now be re-thought or dropped altogether.

Installations like the one Click Green reported on, where a Girl Guides' campsite, which was to undergo a £13,000 solar panel installation, after the organisers had raised the thousands needed, looks in jeopardy, after they reveal there simply isn't time to get the structural engineers report completed in time.

The camp site was hoping to use the tariff money to re-invest in the camping site at Benfleet, Essex, but the whole project now looks in doubt.

Read Click Green's excellent article in full here.

photo credit: alan cleaver

NIMBY'ism reaches new solar heights

2011-11-08T08:00:00.000Z

not in my back landfill!

Spotted this in The Boston Globe and just had to share.

A the 'Globe puts it - 'NIMBY-ism taken to head-scratching extremes', after residents blocked a plan to install solar panels on a former landfill site, claiming their view would be disturbed.

Read their full report here.

photo credit: d'arcy norman

Solar tariff cuts - one week on

2011-11-07T08:00:00.000Z

One week on from the Governments feed-in tariff cuts, it's becoming clear that, as with any financial decision these days, there are winners and losers.

It's the losers that have inevitably drawn the most press, and with good reason, as the tariff cuts have meant the shelving of most residential projects that would have seen solar panels installed on social homes, helping reduce residents energy bills, whilst making a tidy profit for the investors and local councils etc.

Birmingham Council has said it will continue with plans to install solar pv (electricity generating) panels on 1,200 homes. According to Inside Housing - Brighton & Hove say the tariff cuts will make their social housing project "very difficult".

The effects at Solar Panel Quoter have also been noticed, with a sharp decline in 'Free install' enquiries, whilst many of the 'paid for' installation enquiries have been keen to beat the 12th December deadline by getting their installations completed asap.

And we've also seen a lot of new Solar Panel Installers, join our homeowner matching service too.

photo credit: evan courtney

Follow the Fireworks Code

2011-11-04T08:00:00.000Z

Have a safe Bonfire Night everyone.

Follow the Fireworks Code - Click here

photo credit: david hepworth

Microgeneration Certificatation Scheme see the positives for smaller installers

2011-11-03T08:00:00.000Z

"think positive"

The MCS scheme community responded more positively than others in the solar industry, to the weeks earlier news of the feed-in tariff cuts.

In particular, the MCS community see's the cuts as an opportunity for smaller solar installers to gain business as larger 'free-installation' companies cut back on investment and installations.

They also reckon falling installation costs - one of the reasons cited by the Government for feeling able to reduce the tariffs without damaging the number of installations to greatly - will open up the technology to more homeowners on a paid installation basis as opposed to those who were only able, previously, to consider a free installation contract.

The Green Deal will also stimulate solar installations when it starts next year and the Renewable Heat Incentives have also just been given the go-ahead, having cleared a European hurdle earlier this week.

Sounds like plenty of work for everyone doesn't it?

photo credit: sh4rp_i

*To find your nearest MCS accredited solar installer, use Solar Panel Quoter.co.uk.

Unavoidable tariff cuts will affect poorest claim renewables industry

2011-11-02T08:00:00.000Z

The newspapers have been full of little else yesterday - the shockwaves of Monday's Government announcement on the Feed-in Tariff cuts of around 50%, which will come into force from 12th December this year.

Whilst the Government have already explained that the cuts were unavoidable, in order to safeguard the future of some form of tariff system for micro-generators of renewable energy, the solar industry have responded with shock and dire warnings of the cuts affecting the poorest most.

I particular, community projects look the most likely to be scrapped. Such schemes were originally designed to help the most vulnerable escape fuel poverty. What now for those most at risk?

The solar industry is also concerned, and rightly so, that the latest cuts don't send a very confident message to the wider business community on Britain's renewables intentions.

They're also concerned for the business future of those solar installation companies that may loose work and the thousands employed in this fledgeling industry.

In a separate row, there's speculation that the target date of 12th December for the new tariffs to come into force, could be moved as the date is actually 11 days prior to the tariff consultations end.

It's remarkable that in all the reports I've read so far, very little seems to have been made of the fact that the new tariff rate, due to come into force on the 12th December 2011, could very well be reduced again when the proper tariff review date of April 2012 comes around.

The Minister for Energy in his statement on Monday stated that customers on the new tariff are only guaranteed that rate until the revisal of all tariffs in April 2012. December's reduction is in effect a temporary reduction to protect the tariff 'pot' from premature depletion, ahead of April 2012's review.

photo credit: rev stan

Government's feed-in tariff cuts - SPECIAL REPORT

2011-11-01T08:51:00.000Z

Over the weekend, stories regarding a Government's decision to amend the feed-in tariff payments circulated.

Figures were suggesting the current tariffs, for new installers, would be reduced to 20p from the current 43p per kilowatt hour. What really caught the headlines was the fact that the Government were going to reduce the tariff's as early as this December, rather than the previously thought revisal date of next April.

The 20p rate (if it's true) is still 50% better than the 9p rate some solar industry insiders were suggesting may happen.

The reductions stem from the fact that the Government has been over-whelmed by the take up of the tariff scheme by homeowners and commercial enterprises since April 2010 when they were launched.

The resulting over-subscription (against original forecasts) has left the Government with the problem of funding the tariffs at their present rates for new installers and it was already warning that it might have to dip into next years set aside funds to continue funding this years installers.

Now (Monday 31st Oct), we have the official figures from the Department of Energy & Climate Change:

From December 12th 2011, the tariff payment will reduce to 21p/kWh for solar photovoltaic systems of up to 4kW (currently 43.3p per kWh). Tariff reductions for systems between 4kW and 250kW have also been proposed, having already been reduced earlier in the year.

The Government believes that the continued falling costs in solar installation, quoting a fall from £13,000 to £9,000 for an average system since the tariffs began, mean that homeowners should still see a decent rate of return on their investment, quoting figures of around 5% return.

In a statement by Energy Minister Greg Barker, it cited that to be able to sustain the feed-in tariff payments, the reductions are necessary. During September alone, there were 16,000 new qualifying FiT solar installations - double the number of June and three times the anticipated number of installations.

The 12th December date tariff change will apply to all new solar PV installations with an eligibility date on or after 12th December 2011. These installations will move to whatever the new tariff is when announced in the scheduled FiT review in April 2012.

Installations already earning the present tariff will remain unaffected by the reductions.

The Government has also hinted that after April 2012, there might be extra qualifying criteria for home's wishing to claim the FiT's. These are likely to be centred around the energy efficiency of individual properties.

The return on investment might take a little longer, but solar PV installations should still be given careful consideration if you're thinking about reducing your current energy bills. No one doubts that energy bills are going to continue to rise and with the Government's predicted return rates of around 5%, that's still pretty good compared to what savers are getting at the moment.

And don't forget, installations for comparable sized systems are falling - some by as much as 30% since the tariffs inception and the likelihood of extra qualifying criteria could mean more initial expense on projects like loft and wall insulation, to qualify after April 2012. We'll have to wait and see of course exactly what the criteria changes will be.

The biggest losers may well be community projects that were involved in free installations, since the firms investing won't get such a quick return.

Solar Panel Quoter can find you the best 3 companies in your area, based on quality, price and homeowner feedback, and with the pressure now on installers to reduce their prices, can help you make an informed decision about installing solar panels on you home.

If you are thinking of going ahead with solar - then any delay could be costly.

You can read the full Government announcement here.

photo credit: lollyknit

A portable solar panel charger that offers rewards

2011-10-28T08:00:00.000+01:00

Indebted to Gadget Wise for blogging about a new solar charger for portable devices - phones etc from a German company Changers.

The charger kit will allow users to monitor how much energy they're saving and also earn 'reward' credits which can be used against online purchases.

Seems like a clever idea to encourage, not only the take up of renewable energy (on a small personal scale) but also save householders money when you consider how many hours, a typical family must leave mobile phones and MP3 players charging, over the course of a year.

*please note, these are non-affiliate links and provided purely for reference.

photo credit: hakan dahlstrom

Solar power conference & exhibition underway in Birmingham

2011-10-27T08:00:00.000+01:00

"say hi to Vernon"

Solar Power UK - a 3 day solar energy conference and exhibition is currently underway at the ICC, Birmingham. (26th - 28th October).

Over 160 solar companies are in attendance as well as key-note speakers including Greg Barker - Minister for Energy and Climate Change.

Our own Vernon will be roaming the halls, introducing solar panel installers to our online solar panel quoting website.

Solar Panel Quoter currently works with over 270 solar panel installers across the UK, offering homeowners up to 3 comparative quotes from their local companies.

If you're a solar panel installer yourself and would like to join our network, please contact vernon via the Price Engines website, or stop him for a chat during his visit to Solar Power UK on Friday.

Renewable energy is making an impact

2011-10-26T08:00:00.000+01:00

"progress too slow for some"

Sometimes, things appear to happen so slowly that you begin to wonder if they're making any difference at all.

Take renewable energy in the UK. Headlines are dominated by planning refusals for large scale 'energy farms' and surely a few panels atop a domestic property aren't going to affect the UK's figures?

The DECC recently published some very interesting stats on UK energy usage for the 2nd quarter of 2011, compared with the same period in 2010.

I won't bore you with the full details (why not read them here yourself?) but the figures which caught my eye were:

In the second quarter of 2011, renewables accounted for 9.6% of total electricity supply (up from 6.3% in 2010) and nuclear increased to 21.3% (up from 15.1% in 2010).

The biggest loser was gas which fell from 53.4% in 2010 to 44.4% for the second quarter in 2011.

Overall consumption of electricity fell by 1.6% with domestic usage falling by 3.7%. Either we're getting more efficient with it, generating our own or switching more off because we can't afford it.

photo credit: wwarby

Solar hot water efficiency - it's all in the installation.

2011-10-25T10:00:00.000+01:00

People's consumer champion Which has revealed the results of a an Energy Saving Trust trial into Solar Hot Water panel systems.

One of the key findings was that for maximum efficiency and return on investment, it was vital that the installation included:

Insulating pipes and tanks
Getting the right size system for your home's requirements
Setting up pumps and timers correctly.

Whilst a correctly installed and used solar hot water system could provide up to 60% of a home's hot water needs, a poor or incorrect installation could provide just 9%.

Read the Which report here.

Currently, although there's no 'payback tariff' for solar hot water like the tariff's for solar electricity, the Renewable Heat Premium scheme (which runs until 31st March 2012) is offering homeowners a £300 grant towards installing a solar hot water system.

photo credit: moonlightbulb

Straw burning biomass energy plant gets go ahead in Lincolnshire

2011-10-24T12:45:00.001+01:00

This is Scunthorpe reported last week that a straw burning biomass energy plant has just been given the planning green light.

Objections from residents over access and pollution seem to have been addressed sufficiently.

The site will cost £83 million and provide 50 jobs once completed.

Read the full report here, including the fears of the local residents.

photo credit: tomorrow never knows

It's all happening in Australia

2011-10-21T15:56:00.000+01:00

As the title suggests, it's all happening in Australia at the moment.

As if the excitement of our own dear Queen visiting wasn't enough, nor the Rugby World Cup final in neighbouring New Zealand, Adelaide is host to a green 'eco-car' test drive event this weekend.

Electric and hybrid cars from Audi, BMW, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Renault and Toyota will be available for test drives around a set 3.5km course around the city.

The event links up with the World Solar Challenge, which arrives in Adelaide this weekend. Organisers are keen to demonstrate how technology from the Solar Challenge vehicles is finding its way into production cars.

It estimates that within the next ten years, 10% of Australian vehicles will be either electric or hybrid.

(source news.com.au)

photo credit: magnus d

A case of Bond imitating real life

2011-10-20T10:06:00.000+01:00

"oh-oh - look out!"

Watching the 'Bond film - The World Is Not Enough - the other night (the principle story line being a plot to destroy oil carrying pipelines from Russia, leaving just the one new pipeline the 'villain' of the piece is building) it struck me that art could be imitating real life.

Not in the details, you understand, but more in the fact that the renewable industry is facing an expensive time to build new grid networks to transport the renewable power they're generating (or planning on generating.

In particular, the massive offshore wind farms around the coast of Britain - particularly those in the North Sea, which it's hoped will also export / import power from similar european installations, will need a massive new infrastructure to move that power around.

I believe work's already started on such a grid, but you can be sure more work will be required, on both sides.

And the problems aren't restricted to off-shore developments. Because many of the best sites for onshore wind farms are very remote, the costs of actually 'plumbing' those installations into the existing grid are substantial.

The 'Bond film is pure fiction but in real life, the problem's of transporting this new breed of energy are all to real.

photo credit: dave mclear

Offshore wind farm technology still in its infancy

2011-10-19T10:41:00.000+01:00

The European Wind Energy Association reckons the current offshore wind industry is in its infancy.

Now it's recommending looking to the oil and gas industry for advice in tackling the harsh conditions if tomorrow's next generation of wind turbines are to be deployed farther out at sea.

"The goal is to make offshore turbines and structures more reliable, efficient and ever-cheaper to produce".

The association admits the industry is so new that there are very few standards for designing, installing or running these major installations.

The comments come as the Association reckons we could be heading for an offshore energy boom from 2020 onwards.

photo credit: jumanji solar

Today's weather - cold morning with bright sunny skies

2011-10-18T11:17:00.000+01:00

If you've already got your solar panel installation up and working, then despite the shortness of the days, this morning is a real bonus for electricity generation.

Firstly, temperatures (in Derbyshire) were down to just above freezing, and secondly, the skies are clear with very bright sunshine.

We've already discussed how photovoltaic (electricity generating) solar panels work more efficiently in cold temperatures and with the sun, un-impeded by clouds, today should be a great day for generation levels.

Are you keeping a note of how efficient your panels are? What sort of readings did you get for today? Do share...

photo credit: vivek jena

Energy Summit today - will anything change?

2011-10-17T10:04:00.000+01:00

The Prime Minister, Chris Huhne and assorted industry and consumer groups will be meeting today to discuss how energy bills can be lowered.

Driving into work this morning, it was obvious that one of the key messages will be switch supplier and save.

It's a difficult concept when all the major energy providers have all put their prices up - those price rises just 'kicking in' for many homes.

And if you've been paying monthly for your energy and the amount you've paid is short of the amount you've used, then you'll probably have to settle your account before you can switch. That could be several hundred for some families.

I tried it once - switching from E-On to British Gas. It was a complete pain and I received so many bills for different bits of meter readings, that I sincerely wished I'd just stayed put in the first place. My experience may not have been the norm, but I get the impression talking to others that my 'bad' experience was not unique.

I don't want to put anyone off switching - apparently there are genuine savings to be made, depending on your usage and circumstances. I'm just warning you it may not go as smoothly as advertised.

And did you hear last weeks headlines that in a lot of cases, energy providers weren't advising new customers of their cheapest tariff's?

Sure the energy companies are a business and like any business, they're in business to make money.

But when it's such a staple commodity, should excessive profits be allowed? A car manufacturer or a computer brand - fare enough, but water and energy are surely basic human rights.

When we live in a civilised society where families are having to make daily hard choices about whether they turn their heating on or put food on the table, then there's something very wrong.

Very wrong indeed.

What's the answer? Rate caps - max profit bands - fair play charters? Hopefully, those more learned than I on the subject - meeting today - will come up with an answer. Who knows? Maybe they'll see renewables as the way forward to reducing all our energy bills...

(rant over).

photo credit: kris mouser-brown

Rent-a-roof schemes frustration at banks

2011-10-14T08:00:00.000+01:00

'just browsing'

Browsing around for any word on what the feed-in tariff's for new applicants might be reduced by, when the Government announces its report later this month, I came across this story of rent-a-roof schemes struggling to get 'signed off' by the banks, despite massive interest by housing associations and landlords.

Inside Housing reports that although deals have been agreed, many have not yet gone ahead due to possible banks being over cautious.

Understandably, those organisations and businesses are now eager to get their agreements underway before tariff cuts (due next April) for new installers, take effect.

The fear is if the April deadline is not met, then many schemes may not go ahead.

Read more here.

photo credit: jason

Beside the seaside, beside the sea... at Wells-next-the-Sea

2011-10-13T08:00:00.000+01:00

"harbour looking towards Well's lifeboat house"

Well it's no shock to our regular readers that I'm in love with Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk.

After spending many happy childhood holidays there, on the Caravan Park next to the pine forests and beach (as previously chronicled).

I thought it was worth posting a link to the Wells' Harbour website (click here), which amongst the webcams and local information, also carries some very good posts regarding progress at the Sheringham Shoal offshore wind farm development.

Situated off the coast of Sheringham, and clearly visible from that town and it's beaches, the support craft for the servicing and construction of, moor at Wells'.

More recently, John Craven was there recording an interview / piece on the Wind farm for the BBC's Countryfile - the episode to be aired this Sunday (16th October 2011).

The excitement of Mr Craven's visit is well documented with pictures on the Wells' harbour website here.

photo credit: elliott brown

Yorkshire caravan park's solar panel installation

2011-10-12T08:00:00.000+01:00

'sunny caravanning'

Flicking through the Sheffield Star, I saw this story of a Yorkshire farm / caravan park which has just switched on a substantial solar panel installation.

The installed panels will generate between a third and a half of the park/farm's total energy usage a year.

Interestingly with this particular installation, given the commercial size of it, the installing company have taken a part share in the scheme, which enabled the owner to go for a larger installation than he would have been able to afford himself.

Already, the panels are generating more power than was predicted.

photo credit: highways agency

Even your toilet could be solar powered

2011-10-11T08:00:00.000+01:00

The Internet can always be guaranteed to take you on some strange journeys of discovery.

Take for instance this story I came across on Humans Invent. (read the full article here).

It starts off by explaining that recent innovations in toilet design are now saving around 16 litres of water per flush compared with 20 years ago, before going onto detail some of the latest inventions including a solar powered basin tap and waterless water closets.

However, when the story finishes by providing a run down of the latest mobile 'Apps' that can do everything from provide a map of local public toilets, provide ratings on the facilities to tell you when's the best (quietest) moment to leave the film and nip to the toilets.

Well then you know you've been on a very strange journey indeed.

What Internet journeys have you taken recently? Searching for one thing leading to a complete other (yet strangely connected?). Do tell.

photo credit: bruce fingerhood

Why are you installing Solar Panels?

2011-10-10T08:00:00.000+01:00

Why have you decided to install solar panels on your home or business?

- To lower your current fuel bill after the latest double figure percentage rises by the big 6 energy companies?

- To reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment?

- To make an investment, given the poor returns currently on offer to savers?

Or a combination of any of the 3 main reasons above?

The fact is that whatever your reason, installing solar panels ticks all there boxes, whether you're doing it for that particular reason or not.

True most recent installations would seem to be motivated by either the opportunity to claw back the initial outlay, through the Governments feed-in tariffs, or to lower those fuel bills.

Solar panels are turning heads and no doubt once you've got your own installation, then you're sure to be quizzed by your neighbours on the merits of and savings you're making.

It's not too dis-similar to when upvc double glazing first entered the mainstream.And like those early days of double glazing, there are one or two tales of cowboy installations amongst the solar panel industry.

To help make sure you don't get caught out, in a market where it's easy to bamboozle with made up facts and fictional earnings and savings, you need to make sure you get a range of quotes from reputable companies, who you can read feedback on, left by previous homeowners - the good and the bad.

To help you find the very companies you seek, at Solar Panel Quoter, we can use our interactive online quoting website and database of over 250 solar installers across the UK, to find you a maximum of three companies operating in your area.

It's a completely free, no obligation service but it could save you pounds. Try Solar Panel Quoter now - click here.

photo credit: tracitodd

Love of electrical gadgets could see UK miss emission targets

2011-10-07T08:00:00.000+01:00

The Energy Saving Trust has published a report, entitled 'You and your electrical elephant', looking into the UK's energy usage and as it says, "the reading ain't too pretty".

Most of the blame lays with our "obsession" with gadgets - in 2009, the average home contained 3 and a half times as many gadgets as it did in 1980.

The worst offenders are large plasma tv's, large fridge freezers which incorporate ice makers and tumble driers.

Despite hammering the message home about choosing energy efficient models - a call the manufacturers have answered by developing newer, more efficient models, the UK is actually consuming more energy than it did 5 years ago.

The report cites progress has been made - banning patio heaters and incandescent lightbulbs but more could still be done.

For example, if every household replaced their old fridge freezer, washing machine and dishwasher with new energy efficient models, we could save a collective £585 million of our energy bills.

The next time one of your home appliances needs replacing, energy efficiency should be one of the key features you look for in its replacement.

Also, leaving devices and chargers on standby / plugged in when not in use still uses electricity. With the amount of 'gadgets' in the average home, switching them all of could make considerable savings - for you and the planet.

Read the Energy Saving Trust's full report here.

photo credit: jason meredith

UK Petrol Sales down by 1.7bn litres

2011-10-06T08:00:00.000+01:00

You don't have to be a genius to figure out that the current high fuel prices are forcing many motorists to re-think their driving - both amount of and how they drive.

But the scale of the cutbacks is still an impressive.

According to the AA, compared with the first six months of last year, this year revealed motorists have cut their petrol consumption by 15%.

That's 1.7bn litres less or put another way, 40,000 delivery rounds by fully laden tankers less.

That's affected the Treasury by £1bn in lost fuel duty. (source BBC)

There's lots you can do to cut down on your fuel use - try driving at 60 rather than 70mph, brake gently and accelerate gently - read the road ahead and plan in good time.

Removing access weight, roof boxes and racks, will all improve economy.

Try and combine separate small journeys into one longer outing.

Regular servicing, oil levels and tyre pressures can all add significant savings to your fuel bill.

Well done Motorists (albeit, many of us have had little choice but to reduce our fuel bills / consumption).

photo credit: futureatlas

Green doom as RHI receives 'Euro setback

2011-10-05T08:00:00.000+01:00

RHI's tug of war

First spotted in The Guardian, was this story that the Government's Renewable Heat Incentives (RHI) have been "pulled at the last minute".

The blame is being laid at the feet of Europe - the report goes on to say - as the European Commission, unhappy with the large tariff for Bio-mass generated heat, is believed to have said they're happy for the RHI to go ahead, subject to the Bio-mass tariff being reduced.

The Guardian is quite right - not only is it a severe financial setback for all those that have already invested in renewable heating sources, but the setback to the launch of the RHI could knock confidence in the UK's green industry as a whole.

The Government hope to have the RHI scheme back on track, but admit a delay of around 2 months may now ensue, whilst proposals are re-written and voted on.

At least those that have already installed renewable heat sources will be saving on their energy bills - small comfort to those that have invested heavily and were hoping to see a decent return on that investment, via the RHI tariff payments.

For larger installations, there's going to be a lot of worried investors and I suspect a lot of installation projects that were due to start may be put back, whilst the tariff situation, and indeed, the amounts the tariffs will actually pay out, are decided.

Read The Guardian's full report here.

photo credit: josh james

Smart meter energy savings less than 3%

2011-10-04T08:00:00.000+01:00

"green but not with envy"

A rare occurrence - reading a weekend paper - but one I actually managed this weekend and I'm jolly glad I did to.

The Independent ran an interesting article on Smart Meters.

It seems that a trial of 18,000 homes by Ofgem has revealed that those families only managed a reduction of 3% compared to not having the smart meter.

The figures, The Independent reports, are still higher than the 2.8% (in electricity) and 2% (in gas) reductions the Government expects when smart meters are rolled out nationwide - due to start in 2014.

And there were other side-effects too. Family quarrels and bickering as only certain family members engaged with the technology whist others felt condemned for using energy is so frivolous a manner as boiling a kettle.

One homeowner reckoned his wife was so obsessed that she wouldn't put the heating on, resulting in them sitting in the cold, rather than being warm.

The smart meter programme isn't going to come cheap and the costs must surely be passed onto homeowners in some guise, under ever increasing and unmanageable energy bills.

And with a return so low (and this from 'volunteers' already interested in the technology and using it), you have to wonder if there will be any energy reduction / cost benefits at the end of it all?

Read The Independents full report here. It's interesting.

photo credit: mikes camera

Toyota Prius - Hybrid car makes airport taxi service

2011-10-03T08:00:00.000+01:00

An airport taxi service - Checker Cars - which is the official taxi operator for London Stansted, Gatwick, Bristol, Cardiff & Southampton airports (as well as serving Heathrow) took delivery earlier in the year of 80 Toyota Prius cars.

It cited fuel costs and congestion charges as its main reasons for choosing the Prius, which can run solely on its electric motor up to speeds of around 30mph.

The green credentials of the hybrid also fit the companies environmental policy and aspirations.

A new 'plug in' version of the Prius was due to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

You can read more about the Prius spec and fuel economy on Honest John's motoring pages.

photo credit: autoviva

Solar mirrors from falling satellite could survive

2011-09-30T08:00:00.000+01:00

After the excitement and anti-climax of the recent satellite falling to Earth - it apparently fell into the sea off the coast of America eventually, comes news of a larger satellite also due to 'return' to Earth next month.

The 900 pounds ROSAT - a German telescope - could fall over land. Of particular concern are the large mirrors which collected solar energy, to power the satellite.

Apparently, they're more than capable of surviving re-entry.

Don't put your hard hats away just yet.

photo credit: cliff

900% increase in UK solar generating capacity

2011-09-29T08:00:00.000+01:00

The Guardian's environmental section reported a study into take up of micro generation in the UK had revealed a 900% increase in solar generated capacity, since the feed-in tariffs came into force.

Analysts believe many homeowners waited until the tariffs came into force before planning an installation.

Micro-generation in total has grown by 400% since the tariffs were launched in 2010.

A total of 44,460 separate installations have applied for the tariffs, which help those homeowners and businesses re-coup their instalment investment over a much quicker period than would have normally beed possible.

photo credit: pete

Wrexham - 3,000 council homes will be powered by solar

2011-09-28T08:00:00.000+01:00

Spotted in the Daily Post was this story about the go-ahead of a plan by Wrexham council to install £60m of solar panels in 3,000 council homes.

The installations will cut individual homes energy bills by around £300 a year.

With a carbon footprint reduction of 3,000 tonnes of CO2 a year, it makes this scheme one of the biggest of its kind in Wales and the UK, reports Steve Bagnall.

The panels will be supplied by a local manufacturer, with the whole installation scheme set for completion by March 2012.

Wrexham Council is borrowing the money for the installation, but tariff payments from the Government is expected to see the council make a healthy return on the investment.

The scheme will also directly tackle fuel-poverty in the area.

As we've seen, following the latest energy price rises by all 6 major energy companies, fuel-poverty is estimated to affect over a quarter of the UK population.

photo credit: hannah and simon

Reading Schools sign up for solar panels

2011-09-27T08:00:00.000+01:00

Get Reading reported how an innovative new scheme, encouraging schools to take up solar energy is receiving considerable backing from local councils and businesses.

Four schools have already signed up to a scheme which will see them benefit from solar panel installations.

This pilot scheme see's schools displaying a website with empty panels on it. Through fund raising - selling the 'blank solar panel squares' to family, friends and parents work colleagues, 'panels' get filled in.

Each 'tile' costs £5 with each £1 raised generating £3 in energy savings.

The schools will also be able to use the solar panels in an educational exercise.

photo credit: eamon curry

Community building's solar panels vandalised

2011-09-26T09:45:00.001+01:00

The Eastern Daily Press reported a community centre in Thorpe St Andrew has been the subject of an attack by vandals, during which a solar panel was smashed.

The panels were only fitted some 9 months ago and the centre had been a showcase of how renewable energy could benefit community buildings and lower operating costs.

The panel is one of four installed and estimates for the replacement work will be around £2000.

CCTV images have been passed onto the Police.

Read the full story here.

photo credit: bart everson

Solar Panel's on BBC's Watchdog

2011-09-23T09:19:00.001+01:00

The people's consumer champions - BBC's Watchdog - reported in yesterday evening's programme that some homeowners were not getting the free solar installations they'd paid an 'arranging fee' for.

Their investigation centred around one company that were charging an 'arranging fee' of £500 to homeowners who were interested in a free solar panel installation. The fee included an on-site survey as to the suitability of the property for a free solar installation and, if it passed, and the owner wanted to go ahead, then the £500 fee was being charged.

In the studio, the 'owner' of the company being investigated, following consumer complaints, maintained that many homeowners had been refunded, whilst others had received their free installations. The problem, he said, had arisen because the installation company he was using changed their criteria over which were suitable properties for their free installation scheme.

Solar Panel Quoter wants to assure homeowners that we never charge homeowners a single penny for using our free online solar panel quoting website or our subsequent offer of matching your location and project with our database of registered solar installation companies.

Our service is completely free. The companies we find you will all offer their best quote and if you decide to go ahead with one of them, then you'll enter into a usual customer / contractor agreement for payment and completion of the work. Solar Panel Quoter doesn't take any commissions from completed or quoted for installations either.

Our service not only lets you see the details of the (maximum of) 3 companies we've found for you, it also lets you see any homeowner feedback (good or bad) from previous homeowners who've used our service.

The Watchdog website itself recommends homeowners try and get 3 quotes for comparison before deciding which company is right for you. It also mentions the importance of genuine testimonials and previous customer feedback.

Watchdog mentioned the MCS accreditation scheme - only company members of this scheme can authorise an installation as being fit for the Government Tariffs. It should be noted that some companies, in our experience who are not MCS accredited are usually working in partnership with another MCS registered company who will 'sign off' their installation.

No doubt, you'll want to ask these sorts of questions when our recommended companies make contact with you, to arrange their survey of your property and offer their quotation.

photo credit: jelly dude

Solar Panel Quoter can offer instant online quotes for Photovoltaic (electricity generating) and Solar Hot Water panel installations across the UK. We can also advise on Free Solar Installations. The service is completely free to homeowners, but could save you pounds.

Renewables - it does matter where they're sited

2011-09-22T08:00:00.000+01:00

It does matter where large scale renewables are sited as projects in Scotland are finding to their cost.

EDIE reports that several tidal / marine renewable projects are at risk because of the costs involved in transporting the energy they generate into the national grid.

For example, a proposed 1600MW wave / tidal project for the Pentland Firth & Orkney Waters faces an annual grid charge of £56million.

Compare that with an £11million subsidy for a similar project off of the S.W coast of England.

The Scottish Renewables chief executive says such costs could result in Scotland loosing tidal projects to the South, despite "Scotland's fantastic wave and tidal resource".

photo credit: brian m forbes

Ikea at Milton Keynes - roof becomes power plant

2011-09-21T08:00:00.000+01:00

We've already reported on this blog stories of Ikea upgrading it's stores in the UK with solar panels in an ambitious attempt to make all it's stores as self-sufficient as possible, whilst being responsible to the environment.

Work's been progressing nicely with the Milton Keynes Citizen reporting their store has started on their installation which will be completed by next March.Some 5,978 pv panels, at a cost of £562,000, will generate a whopping 246,000kWh - enough to power 75 homes.

These figures alone are pretty impressive but even more impressive is this one: "Since 2005, the company has opened six new stores with only a 10% increase in its combined energy usage".

The store also burns renewable wood materials to produce heat and hot water for the store. The system can provide up to 100% of the stores needs.

Other eco-friendly devices include a rainwater harvesting system, which can store enough water to flush the toilets for a month before having to resort to mains water.

photo credit: colin anderson

Architects in Plymouth save 70% with solar

2011-09-20T08:00:00.000+01:00

Architects Design Group (ADG) is proving an old 1970's tower building can be effectively and economically upgraded, to slash it's energy consumption and carbon footprint.

Having already increased the walls thermal efficiency by 7 or 8 times, and replacing the glazing, they've just finished the installation of a new solar (PV) panel system on the 5 storey roof.

The new solar panels, which feature a clever cylindrical pv system, capture more of the available light directly, increasing the efficiency of the panels. It's one of the first installations of its kind in the UK.

The 20kW system comprises of a 100 separate panels and will generate power equivalent to the typical use of 6 houses.

The new PV system will reduce ADG's electricity bill by 70%, with surplus power reducing costs of the buildings other tenants.

photo credit: solo

EDF - the last of the big six to raise energy prices

2011-09-19T08:00:00.000+01:00

The last of the big 6 energy companies - EDF Energy - announced price rises last week of 15.4% for gas and 4.5% for electricity (source: this is money).

Interestingly, it was the only firm last winter not to increase its prices, although it did raise its prices in March of this year.

Energy and consumer pundits had all been warning that once one of the 'big 6' had increased prices, the rest would follow.

What is interesting here is the fact that if the 6 are going to follow each other's price rise leads, then where does that leave the consumer, who previously might have been able to switch suppliers for a better deal?

Is it still worth switching even? What's been your experience?

Once again, the real question is not if but when the majority of households will install their own renewable energy sources (like solar panels) in an attempt to break free from the stranglehold energy companies have over family finances at present.

If you're interested in finding out investment levels and what a solar panel system can do for your home, start by getting a free online solar panel installation quote from Solar Panel Quoter.

photo credit: fxr

Past your sell-by date?

2011-09-16T08:00:00.000+01:00

The BBC takes up the new story that food sell-by dates are to be removed, in a bid to reduce food waste.

Apparently, the UK throws away around £12bn of edible food each year - that's five million tonnes of food, equivalent to £680 a year for a household with children.

From a 'renewable' point of view, one has to wonder at the amount of energy that was expended in growing, picking, packaging and cooking food that ended up in landfill.

To my mind there's little point in going to all the trouble of creating renewable energy in sufficient quantities if the power it produces is just going to be wasted on wasteful food production.

Perhaps the UK (as a whole) should conduct an energy efficiency study before deciding on the size of renewable installations required?

photo credit: phil and pam gradwell

Your solar panels will still work come Winter

2011-09-15T09:19:00.000+01:00

Despite the UK averaging around 48% overcast days in the year, solar panels, both the electricity generating kind (or photovoltaic to give them their proper name) and solar hot water panels continue to operate.

But what about the Winter?

Surprisingly, solar panels work even better - especially after a fall of snow. Providing the panel itself isn't covered, the amount of light produced by reflecting snow makes it ideal generating weather.

Solar panels also operate more efficiently in the cold - something to do with the cooling effect allowing for higher voltages being produced which results in higher wattage.

Providing the panels are clear of snow themselves, which might sound like a chore but given they should be south facing, then they'll melt off pretty quickly.

Some owners have gone to ingenious lengths, constructing extendable brushes to clear the snow off. Be careful though that you don't scratch the panel surface or put your safety at risk by over-reaching or using ladders etc to gain access.

Most owners just wait for the sun to melt any accumulation naturally.

One other thing you might be able to enquire about is solar panels that may have an additional coating which aids dirt and deposit washing off through natural rainfall.

A bit like the coatings you can now get on self-cleaning glass - very popular with glass roof conservatories - helping your panels maximise your return.

photo credit: david wiley

Isle of Wight wind turbine plans on hold

2011-09-14T08:00:00.000+01:00

Shorter turbines required?

Isle of Wight radio reported how plans for a 5 wind turbine development have been put on hold whilst the council asks for more information on the impact the turbines will have on the neighbouring residents and countryside.

In particular, English Heritage wants more information on visual impact to nearby heritage sites, Natural England want more info on the likely effects on local bat and bird populations, whilst other parties want to know more about the envisaged access and maintenance roads that will be needed to build and maintain the turbines.

Rambling groups, RSPB and dept's within the council itself are also asking for more information.

Perhaps we need to start exploring smaller, less visible turbines? Although the output may be reduced, by adding more (surely a safe planning bet given the height / visual aspect seems to always crop up), then overall output of a planned site could just about be maintained?

photo credit: tumbleweed

Norfolk solar panels that track the sun

2011-09-13T08:00:00.000+01:00

(not Norfolk)

On a rent holiday in Norfolk, I appreciated how sun worshippers were having to constantly re-position themselves and their windbreaks to catch the full rays of the sun.

It's a bit of a problem, and one shared by typical solar panel installations.

However, a development at Boyland Hall, in Norfolk, has got around that problem by being the first UK customer of a German tracking system which uses GPS technology to track the sun.

Remember that scene from the 'Bond film - The Man with the Golden Gun? This system couples GPS technology with astronomical calculations to always be facing the sun.

The result is a 9kW system which generates 45% more electricity than a fixed position system.

Now that is a figure to make heads (and solar panels) turn isn't it?

photo credit: paul stevenson

766,666 homes missed out on solar tariff in West Midlands

2011-09-12T09:42:00.000+01:00

solar energy - even in Autumn & Winter!

nPower (source Evesham Journal) reckon that West Midlands residents could have missed out on over £8million year in feed-in tariff payments.

There are 2.3million households in the West Midlands region, with an estimated one third of them having a roof facing between south-east and south-west.

That's 766,666 homes that could, claim nPower, been better off to the tune of over £1,100 a year from tariff payments as a result of a solar panel installation on their home.

Remember, solar photovoltaic panels work on daylight, rather than just direct sunlight, so even in the Autumn / Winter, months, they'll still be generating electricity, but perhaps more importantly, they'll still be generating an income from the feed-in tariff.

photo credit: ryk neethling

Europe could achieve grid parity by 2013

2011-09-09T08:00:00.000+01:00

"could we soon say goodbye?"

Following on from yesterday's blog post in which Australia was already achieving grid parity, comes the news from Business Green that some european countries could also be achieving the same - solar electricity produced as cheaply as fossil fuel / grid energy - by 2013, with most of them achieving parity by 2020.

Lower prices of solar panels is being cited as the main reason by the industry.

The claims come after a study by the European Photovoltaic Industry Association was published on Wednesday, which analysed markets in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK.

The report also claims that production costs could fall by as much as 50% by 2020, meaning solar electricity would cost 8 euros per kWh by 2020. Coal powered electricity already costs 9 euros per kWh in Germany.

However, the report calls on Governments to continue to foster the right conditions for mass solar photovoltaic uptake by the public and business alike, if Europe is deliver on its carbon emissions targets.

photo credit: ben sutherland

Australia - Solar electricity as cheap as grid electricity

2011-09-08T08:00:00.000+01:00

ABC News in Australia reports that the Photovoltaic Association reckons solar electricity is now as cheap as 'grid' electricity, produced by fossil fuel means.

And it gets even better as Association spokesperson Muriel Watt reveals that the figures don't include the cost of transmitting/transporting the grid energy to where it's needed. Solar energy is usually used at source.

The achievement of equal price comparison is referred to as grid parity.

And it can only get better value as the costs of fossil fuel derived energy is expected to continue growing, much like the recent energy price rises in the UK.

It's another excellent argument for installing solar panels now, whilst the UK Government's tariff's are at their highest.

Lower production costs coupled with greater generating capacity, could see a larger reduction in the tariff's than was originally planned, so the time to act is definitely now.

photo credit: maxwell hamilton

Insulation statistics for British homes revealed

2011-09-07T10:07:00.000+01:00

The DECC has just released updated quarterly figures for the levels of insulation jobs carried out in British homes.

Whilst most of the figures are up by comparison with last year, they're all down compared with the previous 3 months.

Here's a quick recap:

Cavity wall insulations decreased from 170,000 to 92,000 compared with the last quarter - a fall of 46%, but were similar to numbers installed the same time last year.

Professionally installed loft insulations fell by 45% in the last quarter, from 251,000 to 137,000, but were still up by 21% compared with the same time last year.

DIY loft insulations halved from 83,000 to 40,000 in the last quarter but were still 13% higher than last years comparative figure.

Solid wall insulations were the only one higher than the previous quarter's figures - 2,000 were carried out - a 56% rise on the previous quarter, but 25% lower than last year's comparative figure.

The DECC points out that, taking into account other schemes and new build properties built during the last quarter, there were 210,000 more homes with at least 125mm of loft insulation and 130,000 more homes with cavity wall insulation, at the beginning of July 2011 compared with April 2011.

You can read the full report, and others by visiting the DECC website - click here.

With the feeling that Autumn's well and truly here - yesterday's strong winds and wet weather a notable example - many homeowners were obviously feeling the effects of old draughty windows, as the number of homeowners enquiring after a free double glazing / replacement window quote jumped dramatically.

With the latest upvc frame designs and 'A'-rated thermal efficient glazing being offered as standard by many window companies, in a bid to woo new customers, now is a very good time to get your own double glazing quote from Window Quoter - free, instant, no obligation online quotes for your double glazed windows, doors or even a conservatory, in upvc or hardwood.

Try Window Quoter today.

photo credit: paul albertella

Solar triumphs where wind failed in Dorset

2011-09-06T12:21:00.000+01:00

Dorset's largest solar power 'station' opened in Dorset, just in time to take full advantage of the feed-in tariffs before they were cut by the Government. (The tariff cut only applies to installations over 50kWh - normal domestic solar panel installations are unaffected).

What's bizarre is the fact (according to the report in the Daily Echo) that just a few miles away, a similar plan for a wind farm of 4 turbines was refused planning permission.

The 1,780 panels will produce enough energy to power 200 homes.

The solar panels are mounted on angled frames on the ground, for maximum generating effect.

At Solar Panel Quoter, we've seen prices for installations stating to fall with some amazing offers on domestic installations - one was a typical 3.3kWh system for £9,995 whilst another company were offering a typical 3.9kWh system for £12,499.

Visit Solar Panel Quoter and get your own, no obligation, instant online solar panel quote for your home.

photo credit: mark robinson

Offshore wind farm destroys childhood beaches

2011-09-05T11:59:00.000+01:00

Holidays are supposed to be relaxing, however, my blood boiled when lasts week, whilst on holiday in Sheringham when a day trip to the beaches of my childhood at Wells-next-the-sea revealed a far from familiar scene.

Where once there had been delightful pools left behind by the outgoing tide, where children (and adults) could paddle in safely, was now a huge channel dredged out, to make room for a new mooring.

The 4 or 5 boats moored were apparently supply / service vessels to the Sheringham Shoal offshore wind farm, which we could see quite clearly from the beaches of Sheringham.

The 'long beach' at Wells' with its row of brightly painted beech chalets is still as friendly as ever, if a little on the chilly side, depending on which way the wind blows of course.

Thankfully, it didn't spoil the day too much and the week itself was glorious, so thank you Sheringham.

Pity the Well's planners didn't consider the impact of the new mooring a bit more though...

photo credit: russell james smith

Big Fat FiT payment notification...

2011-08-24T00:00:00.000+01:00

I know I'm supposed to be on holiday - I am (well packing the camping gear in the car as we speak) but I just wanted to share this Tweet I just saw..."Soo nice to get a big fat FiT payment notification in with the bills!"Just got me thinking - that would be really nice to come back from holiday and find on your doormat wouldn't it? Money actually being paid into your bank account.Phew!Well with such giddy thoughts, I'd better do my share of loading the camping gear into the car.See you all in just under a fortnight.Jonathan.photo credit: edd deane

Hooray, Hooray, It's a holi-holiday

2011-08-23T08:15:00.000+01:00

It's in the sand....

In the words of Boney-M, sing a summer song as we skip along.....

Your resident Blogger is on his holidays until Monday 5th September.

During this time, there'll be no new blog posts (we don't believe in queuing up old news just to say we're publishing), but we will be back with the latest from the renewable energy 'scene' on the 5th.

Until then, stay safe, think renewable and if the sun shining (we hope in Norfolk anyway) gets you thinking about all that electricity or hot water your roof could be generating, then visit Solar Panel Quoter, get your instant online quote and let Home Improvement Quotes put you in touch with the best solar panel installers in your region.

Click here to visit Solar Panel Quoter now.

photo credit: kevin walsh

EU Offshore Wind Farms installations increase capacity by 4.5%

2011-08-22T08:20:00.000+01:00

Offshore wind energy in Europe is making good progress in the first half of 2011 compared with last year reports Renewable Energy Magazine.

101 new offshore wind turbines were connected to power grids in the UK, Germany and Norway from January to June this year.

The total capacity is 348MW.

Add another 2,844 MW currently under construction and it's not hard to see why everyone's getting so excited.

Even the very size of installed turbines has increased - up from an average of 2.9MW in the first half of 2010 to 3.4MW in the first six months of this year.

photo credit: phil hollman

Ford's Dagenham Plant - the windy city

2011-08-19T08:14:00.000+01:00

turbo's with added vroom...

Daily Tech reports that Ford have had to install a third wind turbine to power a new engine production line at it's Dagenham plant.The new turbine means Ford's diesel engine plant is now fully powered by the wind.The two previous turbines produced enough power to provide for 1,794 homes. The new turbine means a combined energy production of 11.4 million kWh.Standing at 150 metres high, the three turbines are not Ford's only green contribution - the example and use of renewable s being used in other Ford plants across Europe.Read more at Daily Techphoto credit: brian snelson

Barnsley only second to Cornwall for Solar Panel Installations

2011-08-18T08:16:00.003+01:00

wide open spaces and lots of sunshine

The sun is surely shining in South Yorkshire as Barnsley residents have embraced solar panel installations and propelled the area to second in the UK's league of solar installations, reported the Yorkshire Post.

Overall micro-generation index, saw Barnsley in 7th place with Sheffield laying in 9th place and Rotherham in 10th.

Sheffield and Rotherham managed to grab 3rd and 4th places respectively in the solar installations league.

The high performance of the South Yorkshire region is being attributed to the large number of solar installation companies currently operating in that area.

Wherever you live in the UK, it's important to get a range of quotes from different installers to ensure that you get the right system and choose the right company for you and your home.

Solar Panel Quoter not only gives you an instant online quote, but can also arrange (with your express permission) to pass your details to the top 3 solar installers in your area, based on quality and price.

Why not get your FREE NO OBLIGATION solar panel enquiry underway now?

photo credit: tim herrick

Wearable solar cells go into battle

2011-08-17T08:10:00.000+01:00

A wearable solar panel developed by the Australian National University is being trialled in a contract with the Department of Defence.

As infantry soldiers are kitted out with ever more sophisticated electronic equipment about their persons, so the need to carry a myriad of batteries into battle becomes more and more necessary.

The developers hope the solar 'vests' will enable an across-platform charging solution for these devices, whilst eliminating the need for batteries to also be carried.

And although it's a military application, I wouldn't be surprised if the development aids civil projects in the very near future.

You can read the full report here.

photo credit: davidd

Trainee electricians get free training on solar installations

2011-08-16T09:57:00.002+01:00

Nottingham City Council reports how a group of trainee electricians took part in some free training which will benefit them when it comes to working on solar installations.

The training centred around working at heights and manual handling.

It's part of a joint project between the City Council and E.On and Nottingham City Homes, which is hoping to install solar panels on 600 homes in the Aspley area of the city.

Carried out at E.On's building services academy, the 10 trainees will have the knowledge to install and maintain panels.

photo credit: leon hart

Get your home ready for solar.

2011-08-15T08:11:00.000+01:00

Don't forget energy efficiency in the solar rush

With all the Government incentives currently available for installing solar panels, it's no wonder there's been a rush of homeowners, eager to cash in on the maximum feed-in tariff rates.

Because of the rush, many homeowners are forgetting to take simple steps before the installation, to make the most of the energy produced once their installation is complete.

There's little point in saving money in one area if you're only going to continue wasting it in another. It'll diminish the return on your investment and certainly won't be doing the environment any favours either.

But all is not lost - take a look at our handy guide to making the most of your solar installation.

Most solar companies will offer you some form of energy audit. This is a critical first step as it helps you determine exactly how much energy you really use, and can help you reduce that amount. Essential if you're looking to be totally self sufficient - you don't want to be paying for generating capacity you don't really need.

Review your home's appliances - washing machines, driers etc come in all budgets and flavours but there's little point in generating free energy if it all goes to power an un-efficient appliance. Consider renewing or upgrading (or just using less) any hungry appliances.

And on the subject of appliances - if you're buying new energy efficient models, then make sure you make full use, whenever possible, of their energy saving features like low temperature settings or eco wash programmes.

A double glazing salesman once told me that the majority of homeowners who'd had energy efficient double glazing fitted didn't reap the rewards of their new windows by turning their room thermostats down a notch or two. Your home doesn't have to be tropical - so turn the thermostat down by a degree or more.

Have you seen the light? Take a careful look around your home and see if you can't replace any old bulbs with energy efficient ones. Why not go one better and incorporate LED lighting?

Finally, review your homes insulation. There are a few initiatives around at the moment promoting energy efficiency with offers and grants on wall and loft insulation. Re-visit hot water tank and pipe lagging - can it be improved or updated? Any additional insulation will only save you energy.

The same goes for draught excluding - check windows, doors and especially letterboxes. Draught excluder is cheap to buy and easy to fit, but reducing the amount of cold air that gets into your home, increases the energy savings as you'll find you need to heat your home less.

Most, if not all, of the above we should all be doing already, what with the increases in fuel bills, but it's even more important to review your home's efficiency if you're about to embark on a solar panel installation - if you really want to make the most of this amazing technology and are serious about maximising the return on your investment whilst also lowering your regular energy bills.

Reducing your overall energy usage isn't a bad thing for the environment either, but of course you already knew that.

photo credit: daniel novta

Solar may be booming in Britain but elsewhere....

2011-08-12T08:16:00.000+01:00

Solar panel plans on hold

Britain may be enjoying a solar boom as more and more homeowners, fed up with recent energy price rises of up to 20%, have turned to renewable energy (and solar panels in particular) as an investment for the future as well as the present day.Solar panel manufacturers in Ontario were enjoying a similar boom with new manufacturing plants springing up in refurbished factories, to keep up with a growing demand from installers.All that seems to be on hold now and, according to a report in The Globe and Mail, many in the solar industry are fearful for their jobs and businesses.The problem seems to stem from the utility companies carrying out the final connection to the grid of solar installations.The approvals process has a severe back up, which is meaning installation companies are unable to complete and pay manufacturers.Despite some really generous tariff's, if the situation can't be resolved, many in the solar industry are fearing the worst.You can read the full article here. photo credit: carolien dekeersmaeker

Community transport isn't just about going green

2011-08-11T09:49:00.001+01:00

Whilst parliament discusses the impact of spending cuts on rural bus services, in today's energy saving conscious world, it's easy to view the argument from the 'green' angle.No-one denies that making more use of public transport and using our cars less is good for the environment, but there are bigger issues at stake here.For many rural communities, a lot of residents who rely on buses as their only means of transport, will feel increasingly isolated if they can't travel to local towns - for shopping or leisure, visiting families, friends or clubs or as hubs to travel onwards.I grew up in a small Cambridgeshire village which saw one bus a day - 7.30am and returning around 6.30 in the evening from Cambridge itself. Market days (Wednesdays and Saturdays) saw an additional bus at around 9am returning around 2pm from the other nearby town.Growing up, aspiring to owning a car wasn't a luxury, it was a necessity if you were to venture beyond the confines of the village itself.At least then we had a Post Office.So when you hear of bus services being cut further, spare more than just a green thought.photo credit: tim green

The true spirit of London

2011-08-10T08:15:00.000+01:00

The residents and people of Camden, London, show us the 'true' London - selflessly banding together to form work parties - clearing up the mess following the Chalk Farm riot on Monday evening.Thank you.photo credit: hughepaul

More renewable grants scrapped

2011-08-09T08:18:00.000+01:00

Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, the Sydney Morning Herald reports that the Australian government has scrapped a multi million grant program for geothermal drilling projects.Unable to attract private investors, the Government is closing the drilling grants and putting the $126 million into another emerging renewable energy program.The set back means 4 companies have scrapped drilling operations, leaving just one company moving onto the second round of promised grants.The new fund will target solar, ocean and other geothermal technologies.photo credit: keith williamson

Solar panel theft on Isle of Wight

2011-08-08T08:15:00.000+01:00

Last week, the Isle of Wight's news service reported the theft of two solar panels from a solar farm on the outskirts of Newport.

Police were appealing for any horse riders, walkers or cyclists who may have been using the adjacent footpaths, to come forward if they saw anything suspicious.

They believe the theft took place between 8.30pm (sat 30th july) and 10am (sun 31st july).

The panels were part of the farm's first phase which had only just been connected to the grid in the past few days.

It's a stark reminder, especially to those with solar farms to keep an extra eye on their panels.

Solar companies and individual householders should be on the alert for someone offering them 'cheap' panels for sale.

Solar Panel Quoter Blog only just covered the topic of solar panel insurance - check our most recent insurance article out here.

photo credit: r/dv/rs

Save energy with economy tariffs

2011-08-05T08:15:00.000+01:00

who nicked all the ice?

Economy tariffs are nothing new - Economy 7 (where your electricity switches to a cheaper tariff - usually between the hours of midnight and 7am) has been around for ages.

If you're home is heated by storage heaters, then you should already be on this (or a similar tariff).

The idea is your storage heaters heat up overnight on the cheap tariff, leaving you with a semi-controlled heat output during the day.

My rented property is on a economy 10 tariff - 5 hours in the early morning followed by two separate 'booster' periods during the afternoon and early evening.

The only downside to such tariffs is the need for multiple meters, sometimes separate billing etc.

So it makes sense to make the most of the cheap electricity - just like a company in America who took a novel approach to powering their air-conditioning in the recent heatwave.

They've installed ice tanks which use the overnight cheap rate (and when there's less load on the supply) to create 3,000 tons of ice (every night).

The ice is then used during the day to filter and cool the air going through the air-conditioning, reducing the working load on the air-con system and the suppliers.

It sounds a bizarre approach but the company concerned reckon they're saving around 35% in electricity costs.

Cool!

photo credit: emran kassim

Ikea - not all flat pack and meatballs

2011-08-04T08:15:00.000+01:00

Ikea - the flat-pack superstore famous for swedish product names you can't pronounce and meatball suppers, has just bought a wind farm in Scotland.

The 12.3 megawatt wind farm could cover up to 30 percent of Ikea's total UK energy use.

However, Ikea isn't stopping there. With typical nordic efficiency, they're also planning to install 39,000 solar panels across 10 UK stores which will provide an average additional 5% of each stores energy usage. (source Bloomberg).

The Ikea Group already owns wind farms in Denmark, Germany and France.

According to Bloomberg, Ikea is looking to reduce its exposure to fluctuating energy prices, which cost the company $1.7 billion a year.

The planned solar panel installation will cost in the region of 4 million pounds.

photo credit: tgkohn

What's that Skip'? Solar tariff's suspended Skip'?

2011-08-03T08:14:00.000+01:00

The people of Western Australia are facing a very uncertain solar energy future after the State Government suspended the feed-in tariffs.

Households were originally paid 60 cents for every kilowatt hour their installations produced. This figure was cut to 40 cents before being cut again to just 20 cents.

The Opposition's Energy Spokeswoman reckons the government has just found the scheme is costing too much money.

It may be that the scheme is a victim of its own success as many people took up the option of getting paid for the energy they produced, covering their installation investments as well as safe-guarding against future energy price rises.

However the Energy Minister has respond by saying that the tariffs were merely a short term incentive to encourage the take up of solar energy, and is quoted as saying that "you're not going to get rich with a feed in tariff".

It will be interesting to watch and see if the suspension really does stunt the publics take up of solar energy as is feared.

Read the full report on the ABC news Australia web page - click here.

photo credit: flying cloud

New solar technology demonstrated on a Paper Airplane

2011-08-02T08:14:00.000+01:00

Spotted on the LA Times Blog was this snippet about a new solar technology development, resulting in a printed 'panel' which can be folded up into a paper aeroplane and still generate electricity.

It's obviously early days but if the problem of actual output efficiency can be cracked, then the long term benefits are very exciting.

Whilst solar technology has been around for years, it's only just this past year that we're starting to see homes and businesses really showing an interest / having their own solar panel systems installed.

The LA Times story just goes to show that technology development never sleeps...

photo credit: willyk

Derby Toyota plant switches on 17,000 solar panels

2011-08-01T08:14:00.000+01:00

Local BBC Derbyshire news reported how the Burnaston Toyota plant (just west of Derby), which produces Auris and Avensis cars, has finally 'switched on' a £10m solar panel project.

The 17,000 panels, in a scheme funded by British Gas, take up the ground space of 4 and a half football pitches.

Toyota Manufacturing UK hope the panels will generate around 5% of their total energy usage.

photo credit: chris jones

UK National electric car charging network opens

2011-07-29T08:15:00.000+01:00

Green energy firm Ecotricity announced the launch of a national electric car charging network across the UK yesterday.

In fact, it's a world first - no other country has a nationwide charging network at present.

Although the networks only half built, with 12 Welcome Break motorway service stations offering the charging points, another 17 are in the pipeline for completion by next year.

Opponents of Electric vehicles will no longer be able to say their range is restrictive.

The charging points, supplied by renewable energy sources, will offer two modes of charging - a normal '3 pin' 13A supply suitable for overnight charging and a '7 pin' 32A supply which Ecotricity reckon will 'top up' a car's charge in around 20 mins, with full charging times of around an hour.

Not all current electric cars are compatible with the fast charge technology, but it's only a matter of time.

Despite Government subsidies of up to £5,000 towards the cost of a new electric vehicle, many buyers are still put off by the still high cost when compared with their petrol or diesel counterparts.

Just 2,000 cars on UK roads are electric, from 5 current manufacturers.

photo credit: nrmadriversseat

Is it possible to be energy efficient in your office?

2011-07-28T08:15:00.000+01:00

We talk a lot about energy efficiency in the home - whether that's buying 'a' rated double glazing, fitting insulation or even solar panels.

Part of that process is being more energy efficient but what about around the workplace?

It's in all our interests to make as many individual cost savings as possible during the working day. Less cost (money as well as environmental savings) means a better bottom line for your employer and hopefully, some of that 'good fortune' will see it's way back into your pocket - we can hope. If it's only the environment that gains, well that's no bad thing either.

So take a few minutes to look around your working environment and everyday 'common-place' practises you could curb or amend in the name of energy efficiency:

Lighting - are you using or is it possible to change to more energy efficient bulbs? Make sure you turn all lights off when not in a room - e.g meeting rooms and individual offices.

Paper - ask yourself do you really need to print that off? What could you change - e.g emailing pdf invoices instead of postal invoices, staff email bulletins instead of printed memo's.

Recycling - whether that's the numerous trade magazines you receive in the post (if you don't read them - unsubscribe yourself now!) or printed material. Don't forget plastics like water cooler cups and any cans from vending machines.

Electricity - do you really need to leave your PC in standby mode all night? Shut down PC's completely (and don't forget to switch off monitors too). Don't forget to switch off any radio's too. Power tools etc on trickle charge left on all night still use electricity. Switching all these items off, over the course of a year, can save more than just a pretty penny.

Renewable Energy - Solar panels (and other renewable energy generators) aren't just for the home. Businesses can also earn from Government Tariffs and many businesses will have plenty of roof space upon which to site such an installation.

Commuting - do you live near a colleague? Could you share car journeys? Do you have to work from the office? Do you have to use the car? With escalating fuel prices, many commuters are already sharing or using alternative forms of transport - you may have noticed a few more cyclists on the way into work lately. Could your employer provide a shower facility to encourage more to cycle or could they be flexible with shift / work times to encourage car sharing? Worth asking wouldn't you say?

Whatever you do - whatever energy saving tip you take on board, the option of doing nothing isn't really an option at all. It really is in everybody's interest to take energy efficiency and savings on board, and quickly too.

Top Tip. If you're too shy to make a suggestion outright - why not make an anonymous suggestion to your boss or team leader. Just because you've spotted where savings could be made doesn't mean someone else will have also spotted it.

photo credit: david boyle

Save money - save fuel driving this Summer

2011-07-27T09:44:00.001+01:00

Whilst many will have noticed the roads are quieter with the start of the school summer holidays, all that's really happened is many families will be making longer journeys to holiday destinations or for day's out with the kids.

With these extra, longer journeys in mind, it's essential motorists do everything to reduce their fuel consumption and reduce costs, not to mention their emissions.

Here's a few motoring tips you can use all year round:

Reduce the weight - remove any unnecessary weight from your car. More weight equals more fuel.

Queues - If you're stuck in a queue, switch off your engine. Even idling uses fuel.

Drive Thru's - Take a proper break and park up and eat in the restaurant. Especially if there's a queue for the drive-thru or you may feel the need to leave the engine running for heat or cooling.

Cruisin' - Cruise control helps you maintain an even speed. If your car's got it - try using it.

Steady driving - Maintaining a steady speed and allowing plenty of time for braking could reduce your consumption by a much as 33%. Most cars start 'burning fuel once you drive over 65mph so resist the temptation to 'bomb along' at 70+mph, once you hit the duel carriageways or motorways.

Everything but the kitchen sink - Think carefully before using a roof-rack, top box or even trailer to take those holiday 'essentials' in. A roof-rack can reduce fuel economy by 5%.

Maintenance - It should be a weekly routine anyway, but especially before a long journey, check your tyre pressures (don't forget the extra load setting if your full + luggage), oil an coolant levels. Correct tyre pressures mean you'll use less fuel and be safe.

Cool it - Air-con on a car is a godsend, especially if you're stuck in slow moving traffic but remember, it can affect your mpg by around 5 miles per gallon. Add that up over a week (or a long journey) and the savings are obvious. Tilt opening a sunroof will let hot air escape a car interior - especially if used with a window open a small amount.

Finally - don't forget Dogs die when left in cars during hot weather. Even leaving a small window open may not be enough.

And my top tip - if you're driving anything more than your regular commute, packing a few drink cartons and some snacks could come in very handy if you suddenly find yourself stuck in a traffic jam.

photo credit: gustavo jeronimo

Is your smart meter saving you any money?

2011-07-26T08:13:00.000+01:00

Lots of talk about Smart Meter this and energy saving that.... Have you got a smart meter?

If you've been sent one 'free' from your energy provider, is it still in its box?

If your using your smart meter - is it making a long term difference to your energy bills, or was it a novelty that's quickly worn off?

Do tell.

photo credit: digitpedia com

Heat and Air Source Heat Pumps could hold the key

2011-07-25T08:19:00.000+01:00

Anyone following the renewables industry and Government news will have gleaned that it's going to be tough for the UK to meet it's emission cutting targets.

With so much potential wind energy being tied up in (or refused) planning, solar energy is the only technology making any real headway in the domestic markets.

However, there is another alternative that could very soon be in the mainstream - particularly when the Green Deal tariff's start next year (2012).

That technology is ground source and air heat pumps.

Basically, heat from the ground or air, is exchanged and 'pumped' into the building, providing heat.

Air source heat pumps are best suited to properties without the land required for a ground source heat system - ground source pumps rely on coils of fluid filled tubing being buried under the properties garden - either vertically or as more people will be familiar with, coils overlaid in shallow trenches.

And the Air source industry reckon modern technology makes their systems quicker to 'payback' the installation costs, which may also be cheaper to install.

It really depends on the property though. Both Air and Ground Source technology can be used to heat underfloor heating systems or air 'blowers'. Underfloor heating being the most popular.

You may be forgiven for thinking these heat exchange pump systems are a new technology but you'd be wrong. Although we're only really just starting to see such systems incorporated into new builds (usually individual designed and built dwellings), and smaller commercial units, the technology itself has been around commercially for the last 20 years and been successfully used in scandinavian countries.

photo credit: bryn pinzgauer

Solar panel theft in US - a reminder to check your insurance

2011-07-22T08:15:00.000+01:00

We're all used to seeing stories of lead and other metals of value being stolen from roofs, but solar panels?

Thieves recently broke into an American business and made off with between 200 and 300 panels on a stolen truck, prompting the Police to warn residents against purchasing 'cheap panels' and to check the credentials of the seller before handing over any cash.

It's a worthwhile reminder that, here in the UK, if you've recently had solar panels installed or you're thinking of having solar panels installed, then check the panels themselves as well as the installation costs of re-installation, are covered by your home insurance policy.

Solar panels are only a worthwhile financial investment if you get the full 25 year feed-in tariff use of them.

If you've qualified for a free solar panel installation, then check with your supplier whether they're your or the companies responsibility to insure against theft and damage.

photo credit: us army environmental command

Up to £1250 of Government Funding now available for eco heaters

2011-07-21T09:06:00.001+01:00

Hurry - these grants won't last long

The DECC has just announced a support package of £15 million to support up to 25,000 renewable heat installations across homes in the UK.

The grants will be available for biomass boilers, air and ground source heat pumps and solar thermal panels.

The Renewable Heat Premium Payment scheme, which opens for applications on the 1st August 2011 will run until March 2012.

Currently, some 4 million homes in Britain are not heated by mains gas. These are the properties the Government scheme is hoping to target.

Participants will be expected to give detailed feedback on their experiences using the new forms of heating.

*The grants available will be:

Ground Source Heat Pump - £1250 grant (for homes without mains gas heating).
Biomass boiler - £950 grant (for homes without mains gas heating).
Air source heat pump - £850 grant (for homes without mains gas heating).
Solar thermal hot water panels - £300 grant (available to all households regardless of the type of heating system used).

£3 million is going to be set aside for registered social landlords to improve their housing. Application details for landlords will be announced later.

For now, householders can apply from the 1st August. You'll need to ensure you have basic energy efficiency measures already in place. Grants will be available on a first come - first served basis.

You can call the Energy Saving Trust 0800 512 012 or find more information here.
Note - when we tried earlier this morning, the Energy Saving Trust's website page was reporting an error.

*source: Department of Energy and Climate - click here

photo credit: derrick tyson

The problem is electricity prices are too low

2011-07-21T08:15:00.000+01:00

Low prices for electricity is just one of the problems facing renewable power developers in the USA.

The 'problem' could be stalling plans for alternative energy projects like developing hydrokinetics - energy from water sources like the Mississippi where instead of using dams, energy would be harnessed from sunken and surface based turbines, making use of the flow of river water.

Experts reckon new advances in generators, capable of running on variable speeds (due to the flow of water), could hold the key (source AP)

Although the 'wave' technology is still in its infancy, hence little data on exactly how much energy such installations could produce reliably, installation projects are underway.

photo credit: marit & toomas hinnosaar

Energy price hikes the 'final straw'

2011-07-20T08:14:00.000+01:00

The Citizen's Advice Bureau has called the latest energy price rises announced by British Gas 'the final straw', which will drive a lot of people over the edge into serious debt and hardship.

The CAB is urging anyone already in debt or worried about how'll they'll pay the increased energy bills to contact them now rather than leave it too late.

Their services include helping to make sure you're on the cheapest deal that you current supplier provides and will help you look at whether you'd be better off by switching energy providers.

The problem for many is that switching means that some homeowners will be faced with making large final payments to their old provider - especially if their usage had been under-estimated and subsequent monthly payments haven't been enough to clear actual bills.

It's important to regularly take actual meter readings and submit them to your energy provider. Seasonal 'blips' in the weather - it's noticeably chilly in the evenings of late (and I've been resisting the urge to switch on any heating), may mean energy for heating that may not have been considered, adding to your overall usage.

*The same goes for your water usage - don't forget you can still provide your own meter reading to make your monthly debit more realistic.

With consumer groups warning the levels of fuel poverty could rise by over a million households, it's vitally important not to leave yourself vulnerable by acting too late.

photo credit: christian guthier