Yorkshire: are people missing out on energy saving solutions?

With higher energy costs and concern for the climate crisis continuing, now is a good time to take a look at the environmental and financial benefits of sustainable technology for powering and heating our homes.

New research by energy and solutions provider E.ON has revealed that two thirds (66%) of Brits say they would be more likely to consider sustainable solutions for their homes if they knew more about them. And half (50%) of those surveyed say the energy efficiency rating of a new home is important, ranking it higher than the interior design and even local schools.

So we spoke to E.ON to get the low-down on the high-tech heating and energy solutions that could help make your home more sustainable and lower energy bills.

Heat pumps and grants

E.ON’s research revealed that 61% of surveyed Brits felt it was important to have sustainable solutions already fitted when renting or buying a house.

Air source heat pumps provide an efficient and cost-effective source of heating and hot water. And they’re more affordable now thanks to a new £5,000 government grant available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

Once installed, an air source heat pump is up to four times more efficient than a gas boiler, oil, electricity or LPG, saving you money on your energy bills every year. They require minimal maintenance and work whatever the weather.

Find out about heat pump options, savings and benefits here.

Solar panels

Solar photovoltaic (or PV) panels work on daylight, not just on sunshine. The power harnessed by solar cells on your roof is converted to usable electricity which flows through your home to power your TV, lights and other appliances. With solar panels you can generate electricity even if it’s cloudy or cold.

The electricity produced by your solar panels can be used in your own home as and when it's generated. And if the solar panels generate more energy than you can use - for example in the middle of the day when people are often out of the house – then battery and storage systems mean the excess can be stored ready for use when you need it, even when the sun goes down.

All of this means you’ll import less electricity from the grid which will help save you money on your energy bills. And homes with solar panels that export power back to the grid can even earn their owners money through the Smart Export Guarantee.

Find out about solar panels, the packages, and cost benefits here.

Smart meters

Many homes are already seeing the benefits of smart meters, which help put you in control of the energy you’re using in your home. They are self-reading, meaning you don’t have to read your own meters and submit your readings to your energy supplier, and they show how much you’re spending on energy in pounds and pence, helping you to budget and to see where savings can be made.

If every home in Britain had a smart meter it would have the same effect on the environment as planting 75 million trees per year.

Find out about the benefits of smart meters and how to arrange a free installation here.

Save money, save the planet and improve your home

Almost three in five (58%) people in E.ON’s survey said they were likely to install energy solutions in their homes within the next three years – but why wait when you could be saving money now and making your home more desirable?

What’s more, a quarter (25%) of those surveyed say they think having energy efficient solutions would increase the value of their property.

E.ON understands the importance of taking action for climate right now, with homes, businesses and cities playing a vital role in creating a more sustainable future.

To find out more about all the ways you could be more sustainable at home, visit E.ON’s website here.