Renewable energy benefits laid out

30/06/2008

As the government and industry members call for greater use of renewable energy systems in the UK, an article highlights the benefits of the differing technologies.

Solar water heating is one of the technologies showcased in the Guardian, which explains this technology gives homeowners access to free hot water, so long as the sun is shining.

It also points out that up to £400 in government grants can be obtained for the system, but advises homeowners that they may need to install a new water tank for the system to work correctly.

Ground and heat source heat pumps are applauded for the lack of maintenance they require, while the publication notes they need to be installed in a well-insulated home for the full benefits of their renewable energy technology to be realised.

Also singled out by the newspaper are micro combined heat and power boilers.

These units are due to reach the UK in 2009 and generate electricity as well as heat for a home, although still burn a fossil fuel, in the form of gas.

Last week, Dr Virginia Graham told BBC Radio 4's You and Yours programme that "ordinary households" in the UK are interested in generating their own renewable energy.