Solar energy answer to rising fuel bills

Wednesday, 2 April 2008 12:00 AM

Installing solar thermal technology into every home across the UK could reduce homeowners' fuel bills by as much as £2 billion a year.

With energy prices increase steadily over the previous six months, solar energy specialists Velux are recommending homeowners consider alternative technology in order to mitigate the cost.

Furthermore, in light of the government's Low Carbon Building Programme (LCBP), homeowners can benefit by taking advantage of a £10 million grant scheme available until 2010 - allowing them to install devices such as a solar hot water system at a reduced cost.

"Climate change is high on the agenda, as we all face increasing pressure to reduce our carbon footprint," explained Kevin Brennan, head of sustainability for Velux.

"Further still, inflation figures suggest the average cost of living has increased significantly over the last year, with rising fuel prices proving a key, contributing factor.

"Installing something as simple as a solar hot water system can not only help to reduce a home's carbon emissions but it can reduce annual fuel bills too."

Heating water in the home typically takes up 27 per cent of the home's energy consumption, according to Velux research, and is predominately fuelled by gas or electricity.

However, by using solar thermal, to harness energy from the sun in order to heat a large proportion of a home¿s water requirements, a typical household's annual fuel bills could be reduced by as much as £100 a year.

"Solar is an environmentally-friendly, highly efficient source of energy that reduces the output of harmful gases and provides a viable alternative to conventional fuels," continued Mr Brennan.

"It is simple to install and can easily be incorporated into existing, as well as new build homes."

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