The majority of our electricity comes from the burning of fossil fuels (i.e. coal, oil or gas) that generate a considerable amount of CO₂ and contributes to climate change. Renewable energy is generated from resources that can easily be replaced or, more generally, cannot be depleted. Typically, renewable energy sources do not generate as many greenhouse gases and other pollutants as the burning of fossil fuels.

As a home owner, you might choose to install some form of renewable energy generator such as a small scale wind turbine, solar panels to heat water or generate electricity or using geothermal energy (also known as heat pumps) or burning renewable fuels.

If you are interested in installing a renewable energy source for your home, a number of grants are available to help you meet the cost of installation.

Green Electricity

Around 4% of the electricity generated in the United Kingdom comes from renewable energy sources. Energy companies are under an obligation to increase electricity production from renewable sources in the coming years. Most energy companies offer some form of green electricity tariffs. By switsching to a green tariff, your money is eiether used by your electricity company to purchase electricity from renewable energy suppliers on your behalf or go into a "green fund" that is used to support green renewable energy developments.

For more information on green tariffs and what they entail, you can visit the Energy Watch's website to find information as to what tariffs are available.