Energy has gone from a little-discussed topic to a conversational mainstay over the last couple of years, and it is staggering how perceptions have changed along with the prices. What is clear, however, is that the UK government has challenging carbon reduction targets to meet and allowing householders to continue to rely on fossil fuel energy sources is outdated and ill-advised.
There are many benefits to renewable energy and in this article, we will detail not only why it is important to make the switch to renewable energy, but also detail some of the options that are available and how they can benefit homeowners. We will also signpost towards the grants and financial support that is available to retrofit energy efficiency measures in order to reduce household bills and to combat climate change.
What is defined as renewable energy?
Renewable energy is energy that is derived from natural sources. This involves harnessing the power of the sun (solar), the sea (hydro), the earth’s core (geothermal) and the wind to power our homes and businesses.
By investing in renewable energy, techniques and processes for harnessing and exploiting these natural resources become more readily available and cost effective, which increases uptake and drives a continued cycle of investment and research.
Why renewable energy is the future:
1. It is clean.
Fossil fuels release air pollutants such as sulphur dioxide, which is responsible for a number of health conditions, including asthma and bronchitis. Renewable energy is non-polluting and generates no waste. Therefore it improves air quality, protects habitats and by switching our reliance from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, we can protect our health and the environment for generations to come.
2. It limits global warming.
Global warming is playing havoc with our ecosystem. We are already seeing greater fluctuations in weather patterns, the ice caps are melting and natural habitats around the world are being destroyed by drought and flooding. By reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, we can limit the harmful effects of global warming.
3. It is sustainable.
Sunlight, wind and sea-water currents are naturally replenishing resources, the effects of which occur everyday, regardless as to whether or not we benefit from them. We are based on an island, surrounded by water and impacted by weather conditions that will continue unabated for centuries to come. We are also armed with the technology and techniques to utilise these natural resources effectively to power our homes and businesses, so doing so makes good sense.
4. It protects biodiversity.
Fossil fuels are not only damaging to the planet when burnt to meet our need for power. They also harm the planet when being extracted and transported. The fossil fuel industry is responsible for more than 80% [1] of the world’s biodiversity loss, so by making the switch to renewable energy, it is possible to preserve and protect the vulnerable species that we have left.
Other benefits of renewable energy sources
Embracing renewable energy sources is crucial to creating a brighter future for our planet and for future generations. By investing in renewable energy, we reduce our reliance on the global fossil fuel trade, benefit from energy security, support the UK government in achieving its carbon reduction targets and protect the environment.
Renewable energy also offers economic opportunities for our country. In order to continually develop and promote renewable energy as a reliable alternative to fossil fuels, it is necessary to invest in research and development, technology and infrastructure and to create jobs aligned with an overarching strategy for the wholesale adoption of renewable energy sources to power our country.
Switching to renewable energy
There are many ways in which you can begin to benefit from renewable energy sources. At Next Energy, we are experts in the installation and maintenance of air source heat pumps [2] and photovoltaic solar panels [3].
These sources of renewable energy are accessible, can be easily retrofitted into existing properties and will reduce your carbon emissions and energy bills. Government grants of up to £5,000 are available towards the purchase and installation of solar panels and air source heat pumps and although eligibility criteria vary, Next Energy are always delighted to support homeowners in identifying and applying for the grants to which they are entitled.
In conclusion
Embracing renewable energy sources will reduce the UK’s carbon footprint, combat climate change, improve public health and create a sustainable future. By being at the leading edge of these developments, the UK will be well positioned to thrive in the race for energy security, now and in the future. To start your journey into renewable energy, please contact us today.
