Thinking about renewable energy for your home? You’re not alone. More and more UK homeowners are turning to renewable technologies to save on energy bills, improve comfort, and reduce their carbon footprint.
This guide gives you a simple overview of what renewables are, the options available, and how to take your first steps.
What are Renewables?
Renewables aren’t just about generating your own energy — they also include ways to save it.
Common options for homeowners include:
Solar panels – generate electricity from sunlight.
Heat pumps – provide efficient heating and hot water.
Insulation & glazing upgrades – keep warmth inside your home.
Battery storage & EV charging – store energy and power your electric vehicle.
Each option works differently, but they all have the same goal: helping you use energy more efficiently.
Two Routes Into Renewables
When it comes to funding renewable improvements, most homeowners take one of two paths:
Able to Pay
If you’re ready to invest in your home, you can choose the technology that suits you best and pay directly, either upfront or through finance.
Learn more in our Costs & Funding guide.
Grant-Funded
Not every homeowner has to pay the full cost of renewable improvements. There are several government-backed schemes designed to make renewables more affordable — and in some cases, completely free.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS): Offers grants towards the cost of installing low-carbon heating systems such as air source and ground source heat pumps. This can take thousands of pounds off your upfront costs.
ECO4 Scheme: Focuses on helping households with lower incomes or those in fuel poverty. Depending on your circumstances, it may fund insulation, heating upgrades, or renewable systems at little to no cost.
Local Authority or Regional Grants: In some areas, councils and local authorities provide extra funding for energy efficiency and renewable projects.
Eligibility depends on factors like your income, property type, and current heating system. Even if you don’t qualify for one scheme, you might be eligible for another.
👉 Want to know more? See our full guide: Do I Qualify for Renewable Grants?
Benefits of Getting into Renewables
Switching to renewables isn’t just about “being green” — it can make a real difference to your day-to-day comfort, monthly bills, and long-term home value.
Lower energy bills & protection from rising costs
By generating your own electricity with solar panels or heating your home efficiently with a heat pump, you’ll rely less on energy suppliers. That means more predictable bills and less exposure to price hikes.A more comfortable, energy-efficient home
Renewables don’t just save money — they can make your home feel better to live in. A well-installed insulation or glazing upgrade keeps rooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Heat pumps provide steady, consistent heating rather than the “on-off” cycle of traditional boilers.Reduce your carbon footprint
Every step towards renewables helps cut your household emissions. For many homeowners, this is about leaving a positive legacy for future generations.Increase your property’s value
Buyers are increasingly looking for energy-efficient homes. Having renewable technology in place — especially solar, battery storage, or a modern heating system — can make your property more attractive on the market.Futureproof your home
Government targets and building regulations are tightening. Installing renewable technologies now means your home is already ahead of the curve, and you’re less likely to face costly retrofits later.
👉 For a breakdown of benefits by specific technology, explore our Technologies & Upgrades section.
What to Expect as a Homeowner
Installing renewable technologies is usually straightforward, but the process can vary slightly depending on whether you’re paying directly or using a grant scheme.
For most homeowners, the journey looks like this:
Consultation & survey
An installer will assess your home to see which renewable options are suitable.
They’ll look at things like roof space for solar, insulation levels for heat pumps, or whether glazing upgrades are cost-effective.
Funding check
If you’re able to pay, your installer will talk you through costs, finance options, and expected savings.
If you’re grant-funded, the process may include eligibility checks, paperwork, and approval before installation can begin.
Installation
Trained contractors carry out the work.
Timeframes vary: solar panels may be fitted in a day or two, while a heat pump system or major insulation upgrade can take longer.
Aftercare & maintenance
Good installers will provide a handover, explain how your system works, and offer aftercare support.
Renewables generally require less maintenance than traditional systems, but regular servicing ensures everything runs efficiently.
Protecting Your Investment
Choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right renewable technology — and protecting your investment should always be part of the plan.
Insurance Backed Guarantees (IBGs)
An IBG gives you extra security. It underwrites the installing contractors written guarantee in the event that they cease trading (as peryour policy T&Cs), the IBG means your work is still covered. This protection is designed specifically for homeowners so you’re not left exposed if something goes wrong further down the line and the installing contractor has ceases to trade as per the policy wordings.Vetted & Approved Installers
Always look for installers who have been independently vetted for their skills, track record, and financial standing.Peace of Mind, Built In
By choosing a vetted installer and securing an IBG, you add important layers of protection and reassurance to your renewable project.
👉 Learn more about how Insurance Backed Guarantees work for homeowners.
Related Guides for Homeowners
If you’re ready to learn more, these guides are a great place to continue:
Costs & Funding – Understand payment options and available grants.
Technologies & Upgrades – Explore the renewable solutions that could work in your home.
Insurance Backed Guarantees – Find out how IBGs provide reassurance on your investment.
Renewables FAQs – Quick answers to the most common homeowner questions.
