Renewable Energy FAQ

What is renewable energy?

Renewable energy is the term used to describe energy that occurs naturally in the environment. Most of this comes from the sun which means that this source of energy is essentially inexhaustible.

The key issue is how to extract this energy effectively, and convert it into more useful forms of energy. There are many established technologies in the marketplace that perform this task very efficiently, for more information on these click on the menu items.

Are renewable heating systems only effective for new build or extensions?

It is true that the cost of installation is lower when integrated into a new build or extension however the longer term financial benefits can still be realized with a “retro-fit” installation to an existing property – in addition to significant carbon emission reductions. Can heat pumps be used with radiator based heating systems? Heat pumps are very efficient at generating water temperatures up to 50-60 deg C, in a newer well insulated property this is a sufficient temperature to heat the home. In older properties old inefficient radiators will need to be replaced with more efficient and sometimes larger radiators to maximize the efficiency of the heat pump.

How energy efficient are heat pumps?

Heat pumps are one of the lowest-carbon emission methods of heating any building as there is no pollution on-site. The only emissions are from the electricity used to power the pump. Some electricity suppliers are now offering electricity from a renewable energy source and, if you use this to power your heat pump, your property will be totally heated from renewable energy with zero carbon emissions.

In addition the effective lifecycle of a heat pump is approx 20-25 years.

Are grants available?

Grants are available via the Government’s Low Carbon Building Programme for the installation of renewable energy products, however the product and installer must be certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme in order to claim the money. Marlborough Heating is one of the first companies in the area to achieve this certification, more details are available via the links on this page.