THE ULTIMATE BUYER'S GUIDE TO Renewables

Whether you want to include a heat pump with your self-build or add solar panels to your existing home, our experts lay out the costs and considerations

- TIM PULLEN AND DAVID HILTON

Building or retrofitting our homes to be greener is something we’re all becoming increasingly conscious of. From the ‘fabric first’ approach of creating a highly insulated and airtight building, to building using natural materials and installing renewable technology to provide heat and power, there are many ways to construct and run a more sustainable home.

Over the years the number of case studies we’ve featured where renewable technology has been a big part of the overall design and build (or design and renovation) of a home has grown. Interest breeds investment and renewables like heat pumps and solar panels are becoming a far more achievable option for many more homeowners than before. Various government grant programmes have helped, too, with the upcoming Boiler Upgrade Scheme (that will replace the Renewable Heat Incentive grant) going some way to incentivize homeowners to think ‘green’.

However, with so many buzzwords, initiatives and headline-grabbing stats about renewables it can be difficult to know how to make the right choice for your home, whether you’re self-building or renovating. Before breaking down the renewable options available, there are some key factors to bear in mind…

WHERE TO START