Renewable energy generation

There are a number of microgeneration renewable technologies now available that can be incorporated into both new developments and existing homes. These can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save money by providing endless cheap energy and using less gas and electricity.

Renewable energy guides

For some technologies planning issues will need to be considered, such as siting and whether planning approval is required. The following guides provide useful information:

Photovoltaic (PV) panels (solar electricity)
Solar thermal hot water collectors
Wind turbines
Biomass - Wood Fuel

Listed buildings and renewable energy

If you are considering installing insulation or renewables to your listed building you can find advice on practical matters and whether planning approval is required in our:

Greener Historic Buildings guide

For more information contact planning services or call 01993 861420.

Woodfuel and biomass boiler guidance

For information about woodfuel and biomass, including installers and fuel suppliers visit:

Biomass Energy Centre

Or download our leaflet:

Biomass - Wood Fuel

To find a woodfuel or biomass supplier in your area visit:

MyForest

Financial incentives and grants

Feed-in tariff scheme

Under this scheme energy suppliers make regular payments to householders and communities who generate their own electricity from renewable or low carbon sources such as solar electricity or wind turbines.

For more information on feed-in-tariffs visit:

Energy Saving Trust

For further information see:

Department of Energy & Climate Change

To compare costs for solar installers try:

Cocoon's comparison service

Renewable Heat Incentive

The Renewable Heat Incentive is a government initiative aimed at promoting the use of certain renewable technologies, by offering financial support to businesses and households. The assistance is available in the form of 20 year tariffs and applies to a wide range of technologies including solar thermal, biomass, ground and water source heat pumps. The scheme is being introduced in two phases.

The first phase was aimed at the non domestic sector including industries, businesses and public sector organisations. Information on the eligibility requirements for these tariffs as well as the rates available can be found on the Ofgem website:

Ofgem

The second phase aimed at domestic households is expected to be introduced summer 2013. More information on domestic rates and eligibility criteria can be found from the Department of Energy and Climate Change on the GOV.UK website: