Wales, with its proud history of coal mining, and stunning rural locations, is more reliant on fossil fuels for heating than most developed countries. In fact, approx 75% of of energy generated each year is from oil & gas.
The Government is committed to improving the health of residents and reducing the environmental impact of residential, commercial and industrial heating. Hydrogen options are still being explored for non-residential properties, but use of hydrogen boilers in homes has not passed the scrutiny of various studies and reviews.
Air source heat pumps are a natural choice for Welsh residents, and are officially now the preferred heating system in Wales. Government confidence in this 80 year old technology is based on the phenomenal performance (efficiency) and strong carbon-reducing credentials heat pumps offer.
Studies show, time and time again, that a well insulated home with an air source heat pump, and solar panels, can save home owners up to 50% on annual bills, compared to an average house on oil or LPG.
To enhance these savings, some energy companies are also offering special tariffs for homes using heat pumps instead of fossil fuels.
Grants are available to help each household in the UK reduce the cost of installing a heat pump, and we expect to see more support from the Welsh government moving forward.
In the meantime, if you are earning less than £31,000 pa, or, if you have a health issue adversely impacted by the cold, or, if you are reducing mean-tested benefits, please get in touch to discuss your ECO4 eligibility and options.