info@ThinkESG.co.uk

    ThinkESG

    Sustainable Property Upgrades

    To assist in the decision-making process, the following outlines the advantages, disadvantages, and optimal use cases for each system::

    🌞 Solar PV Panels

    • What they do: Convert sunlight into electricity.
    • Best for: Homes with south-facing roofs and minimal shading.
    • Pros:
      • Eligible for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) – get paid for excess electricity exported to the grid.
      • Low maintenance.
    • Cons:
      • Initial costs can be high (though prices have fallen).
      • Less effective on north-facing or shaded roofs.

    ♨️ Solar Thermal Panels

    • What they do: Use solar energy to heat water.
    • Best for: Homes with a hot water cylinder.
    • Pros:
      • Reduces gas/electricity used for water heating.
      • Works well in summer months.
    • Cons:
      • Less useful in winter.
      • Doesn’t provide space heating.

    🌬️ Air & Ground Source Heat Pumps

    • What they do: Extract ambient heat from air or ground to heat your home and water.
    • Best for: Well-insulated homes.
    • Pros:
      • High efficiency (especially Ground Source).
      • Can replace gas or oil boilers.
      • Eligible for Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grants.
    • Cons:
      • High installation costs.
      • Requires space for external units (air) or ground loops (ground).

    🔥 Biomass Boilers

    • What they do: Burn organic material (e.g., wood pellets) for heat.
    • Best for: Rural properties off the gas grid.
    • Pros:
      • Renewable fuel source.
      • Effective for whole-house heating.
    • Cons:
      • Requires storage space for fuel.
      • Regular maintenance and ash removal needed.

    💨 Domestic Wind Turbines

    • What they do: Generate electricity from wind.
    • Best for: Exposed, windy rural locations.
    • Pros:
      • Can significantly reduce electricity bills in windy areas.
      • Excess energy can be stored or sold.
    • Cons:
      • Variable output.
      • May need planning permission.
      • Can cause noise or visual impact.

    ⚡ Smart Controls & Battery Storage

    • What they do: Manage energy use and store surplus power.
    • Best for: Homes with renewable energy systems (especially solar PV).
    • Pros:
      • Reduces reliance on the grid.
      • Improves efficiency and savings.
    • Cons:
      • Battery systems are still relatively expensive.