Renewables
From Sustainable Building Resource
[edit] Renewable Energy
Renewable energy (Sustainable Energy or Clean Energy) refers to energy sources that are principally derived from the power of the sun's radiation. This includes solar power, both direct and indirect forms such as bioenergy, water or wind power. Shifting to renewable energy is beneficial for society from the point of view of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reducing dependence on finite resources and improving security of supply.
If you are thinking of generating your own electricity with renewable energy it is essential that you first look at all methods available for reducing the energy you consume in your home. These include fully insulating your home, using only A+ or A++ rated appliances and energy efficiency lighting.
This guide focuses on small scale generation, suitable for UK buildings, rather than traditional centralised systems such as large wind farms and hydro electricity. An honest evaluation of the pro's and con's of each method is presented, with links to further reading and local suppliers to help get your project under way.
Micro-Combined Heat and Power (Micro CHP)
