With the effects of global warming becoming more apparent every year, we are becoming increasingly more conscious of environmental sustainability. Harnessing renewable energy at home is not only a responsible choice but also an easy one.

Renewable energy sources provide a greener, more sustainable alternatives to traditional non-renewable energy like fossil fuels and nuclear energy.

In this post, we're going to guide you through the basics of renewable energy, it's benefits and provide you with our Top 10 ways for making energy efficient decisions in your home.

What Is Renewable Energy?

Renewable energy refers to energy sourced from naturally replenishing resources. These resources are considered sustainable because they are continually available, unlike non-renewable energy sources that are finite and contribute to environmental pollution.

What Is a Renewable Energy Source?

Renewable energy sources are the means by which we tap into these sustainable resources. Common examples include solar power, wind power, hydropower (from flowing water), geothermal energy (heat from the Earth's core), and biomass (organic material such as wood or agricultural waste).

Non-Renewable Energy

Non-renewable energy sources, like coal, oil, and natural gas, are finite and harmful to the environment when extracted and burned. The depletion of these resources contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and climate change.

Types of Renewable Energy

There are several types of renewable energy sources:

Solar Power: Generated by capturing sunlight using photovoltaic cells, solar power is a widely adopted and eco-friendly energy source for homes.

Wind Power: Utilising the kinetic energy of wind to turn turbines, wind power is a growing and efficient renewable energy option.

Hydropower: Water flowing in rivers or dams generates hydropower. It's a dependable and clean source of energy.

Geothermal Energy: Harnessing heat from the Earth's core, geothermal energy provides consistent heating and cooling options for homes.

Biomass: Organic matter like wood chips, agricultural waste, and even algae can be converted into biofuels for heating and electricity.

Advantages of Renewable Energy

The adoption of renewable energy offers several advantages:

• Environmental Benefits: Reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower environmental impact.
• Sustainability: Infinite supply, ensuring energy security for the future.
• Cost Savings: Lower long-term energy costs through reduced reliance on expensive fossil fuels.
• Energy Independence: Decreased reliance on foreign energy sources.
• Job Creation: A growing renewable energy sector generates employment opportunities.

With advancements in technology and increasing awareness of environmental issues, renewable energy is becoming an accessible and economically sound choice for homeowners.

Our Top 10 Tips for an Energy Efficient Home

1. Install Solar Panels: Solar panels on your roof will save on average, 1 tonne of carbon per year (depending on where you live in the UK). It will also cut your electric costs by converting sunlight into electricity, reducing your reliance on the grid.
2. Shrink your Bills: 90% of the energy used by a washing machine is spent heating the water so why not opt for a cooler wash at 30° or 40°? Not only will you save money and energy, your clothes are also at less risk of being shrunk!
3. Use Energy Saving Bulbs: most older lightbulbs are now being phased out by suppliers and replaced with more energy efficient ones such at LED's or CFLs. Doing this could save you £30 a year in electricity costs as well as the cost of replacing as they have a much longer lifespan.
4. Unplug your phone charger: when you're not using a charger, turn it off! Most will still use power even when not in use and could be sneakily causing your energy bills to climb. If you can, why not consider a solar charger?
5. Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replace old appliances with energy-efficient ones to reduce consumption. These can be identified using their energy-efficiency rating which will rate them from A (best energy efficiency) to G (poorest energy efficiency).
6. Consider a Log Burner: All stoves created since January 2022 must be eco-design compliant which means a log burner might not be as 'dirty' as you'd think. As well as being a great source of heat for your home, they also use a sustainable fuel that makes them almost carbon neutral.
7. Smart Thermostats: Opt for a smart thermostat to regulate your heating and cooling systems more efficiently. By scheduling your heating for only times when you know you'll be home, you'll save money and energy from wasted heating.
8. Watch your Water: A running tap uses more than 5 litres of water every minute so make sure you're turning them off when not in use. This will not only save you money on your water bill but also save on the CO² required to heat, pump and treat the water.
9. Battery Storage: Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) allow you to store electricity either from the National grid or via a renewable source such at solar panels. A home battery can be used to import power from the grid during cheaper low peak hours and also make you less reliant in case of power cuts or other emergencies.
10. Government Incentives: The government is investing £12 billion in 'Help to Heat' schemes to help make homes warmer and more efficient. Check with your local authority to find out if this can be applied for in your area. You could also qualify for an ECO (Energy Company Obligation) scheme which requires energy companies to install measures in homes that need them most.

By incorporating these tips and embracing renewable energy sources, you can make a significant contribution to a sustainable future while reaping the benefits of lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.

At Foreman Homes, we champion a forward-thinking perspective on renewable energy. Our homes are thoughtfully constructed with sustainability in mind and together, we have the power to create a meaningful impact.