Renewable energy is on the rise as more and more people are realising the importance of saving the planet. Not only can renewable energy sources help reduce your carbon footprint, they can also help you save money in the long run. Here are some of the most popular types of renewable energy and what to do if you’re interested in switching to renewable energy in Edinburgh.

Heat Pumps

There are two main types of heat pumps used for domestic properties;

Air Source

An air source heat pump takes heat for the air outside the house and transfers it into the house. They can take heat from the air when temperatures are as low as -15°C. Heat pumps aren’t 100% renewable as they require electricity to be powered. Although, they do have the ability to produce up to 3x the amount of energy that they use. Making them extremely efficient.

Ground Source

Ground source heat pumps are similar to air source heat pumps. The main difference is that they extract heat from the ground. The heat from the ground is absorbed by a fluid and is then circulated around your home.

Solar Panels

Solar panels take sunlight and turn it into energy. Solar panels are extremely powerful and can even produce energy when it’s cloudy outside, this is because the sunlight still shines through. With solar energy you never need to worry because the sun isn’t going anywhere – and if it does we’ll have bigger things to worry about.

Biomass

Biomass is when people get energy from burning wood and other organic materials. Even though burning matter like this produces carbon emissions, it has still been classed as a renewable energy source. This is because the material that is being burnt, unlike fossil fuel, is renewable.

Wind Turbines

Wind turbines are another excellent source of renewable energy. Powered by wind as it moves the blades, this form of energy is great and completely clean. Unlike solar panels though, there needs to be enough wind in order to power them. On calm and still days, you may not be able to produce much energy, if any at all.

Advantages of Switching to Renewable Energy

There are many advantages to switching to renewable energy sources, including;

  • Reduced greenhouse gas emissions
  • Creates more job opportunities
  • Gives homeowners independence as they are not solely reliant on the grid
  • Save money
  • Improves public health, lowers healthcare costs
  • More reliable than traditional sources which will one day run out

Interested in Renewable Energy in Edinburgh?

As you can see, if you are interested in switching to renewable energy in Edinburgh, you have many options to choose from. There are many companies who can provide you with the solution you want. As well as many government funded incentive schemes that reward people for switching to renewable energy.