You can significantly reduce the amount of CO2 your home produces by choosing low-carbon heating options over old-fashioned boilers or oil- and gas-fueled boilers.
These systems offer energy-efficient as well as sustainable heating. They also provide the same warmth level as other carbon-intensive options.
It cannot be easy to find the best system for your home. Each system has its advantages and disadvantages.
Low-carbon heating can be used in many ways. With Net-Zero becoming more prominent, it is easier to adopt a low-carbon home.
Heat pumps
Heating and cooling with heat pumps are low-carbon. They transfer heat from or outside your home.
There are many types of heat pumps that are low-carbon heating options for your home. Although all heat pumps work the same way, the heat source can make a big difference in each performance. This will ultimately impact the cost.
Boilers and other low-carbon boilers
There are many kinds of boilers available on the market. These range from traditional oil-fired boilers to modern, low-carbon combi boilers.
You have two options: electric combi boilers or biomass boilers. You can also replace your boiler with a micro-CHP, which uses gas to produce heat and power simultaneously.
Solar Water Heating
People often think of solar panels when they think about solar energy. These panels convert sunlight into electricity. Solar energy can also heat your home via the solar thermal panel.
Solar water heating systems are solar collectors mounted on the roof of a house to capture sunlight energy. They cost about PS3,000-PS5,000 to set up.
The UK’s solar power potentials are higher towards the south, with the greatest opportunities along the southern coasts. The Scottish Highlands and Northern Ireland have the lowest solar potentials in the country.
While certain areas are better suited for solar energy than others, lower solar potential doesn’t mean these heating systems can’t be used. They may not be as effective in these areas. Experts say that if the UK dedicated 1% of its land to solar power, it would generate enough electricity to supply its energy needs.
Solar thermal heating systems won’t typically be able to heat a whole home. Instead, they will heat about half the hot water required or provide anywhere between 40-80% space heating. You will need an additional heating system, such as a heat pump or boiler, to heat the space.
Low-Carbon Heating Grants
The Renewable Heating Incentive scheme in the UK provides seven-year financial support for homeowners who produce heat from renewable sources such as ground source heat pumps, air-source heat pumps, biomass boilers or solar thermal panels. This program is open to applications through 31 March 2022. It covers England, Wales and Scotland. You can also get government heat pumps grants to help you with the cost of installation.
The full regulations of the scheme, including who can apply and how much money you can receive, are available on Ofgem’s site. The RHI covers only renewable heating sources that have an MCS certificate. Tariff rates will vary depending on which low-carbon heating system you own.