Solar Thermal
systems use solar radiation to produce hot water mainly used for showers, washing
etc., but sometimes additionally for space heating and
swimming pools.
|
Solar PV
(Photo Voltaic) systems use solar radiation
(sunlight) to produce
electricity for use in homes or other buildings. |
Heat Pumps
extract low grade heat from the air or ground, rather like a fridge
in reverse. For every unit of electricity input, around 3
units of useful heat is delivered to the home.
|
Micro CHP replaces the gas boiler in a central
heating system. It burns gas to produce heating, whilst simultaneously generating
electricity. |
Biomass
boilers burn wood pellets, chips or logs to produce heat in
a central heating system. Biomass is effectively zero
carbon over its life cycle; a typical system in a family home can save around 6 tonnes of CO2 annually. |
Micro wind turbines generate
electricity from the energy in the wind striking the turbine. They are only effective when located in windy areas
remote from buildings or other obstructions; current products have
failed to perform well. |
Mini wind turbines generate
electricity from the energy in the wind striking the turbine. Free-standing mini turbines are most effective when located in windy areas
remote from buildings or other obstructions. |
Small hydro
systems produce power from the flow of water.
The
continuous power output resulting from this flow is a
valuable resource where available. |