According to the UN, energy is at the heart of the climate challenge; energy generated from the burning of fossil fuels is a major contributor to the production of greenhouse gases.
In 2022, 40.8% of the electricity generated in the UK still came from fossil fuels.
Understanding your energy usage, and sourcing a green energy supply, is one way of making a positive impact.
If you’re looking for energy saving ideas, then take a look at our on how you might make your home more energy efficient or reduce your energy usage.
Smart Meters
Smart meters measure your energy consumption and then send it remotely to your energy supplier, as well as being able to be viewed in real time, at home, on a suitable device. It is an excellent way of tracking your energy usage, as well as instantly seeing the impact of your activities, such as turning on or off electronic devices.
If you do not currently have a smart meter then you can request one, with energy suppliers aiming to ensure every house in Great Britain has a smart meter by the end of 2025.
Green Energy
According to Greenpeace, Green, or Renewable energy, comes from sunlight, wind, waves, the tides and geothermal heat.
The Centre for Sustainable Energy provides guidance on green electricity tariffs, which it states almost all UK suppliers now provide. Whilst over 25% of the UK’s energy is now generated from renewable sources, some green tariffs promise additional benefits.
If you’re looking to change to supplier, then the Energy Saving Trust has some advice on this. MyEnergi also provides a list of green energy suppliers in the UK.
Solar Power
According to Heatable.co.uk, approximately 1.3 million households in the UK now have solar panels installed.
MoneySavingExpert has some advice for those wanting to know more information about installing solar panels and whether it is worth it. However, they cite the Energy Saving Trust as stating that a typical household can save between £120 and £420 a year.
If you’re interested in considering solar panels for your property, then Solar Together Berkshire is a solar panel and battery storage group-buying scheme, promoted by Wokingham Borough Council, although an internet search will show there many other installers around.
GridCarbon (App)
If you are interested in tracking the carbon intensity of the UK’s electricity grid, then you can download the GridCarbon app.
This app provides you with a breakdown of the mix of fuel types which have generated the energy supply the grid.
