insideKENT Magazine issue 94 - January2020 | Page 125

HOME+GARDEN MAKE YOUR HOME ENERGY EFFICIENT I N 2 0 2 0 WITH UK RENEWABLE ENERGY CAPACITY SURPASSING FOSSIL FUELS FOR THE FIRST TIME, GOVERNMENT PLANS TO BAN MAINS GAS CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS IN NEW HOMES BY 2025, AND THE DEMAND FOR GREEN BUILDINGS DOUBLING EVERY THREE YEARS; SUSTAINABLE AND ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDINGS ARE FAST BECOMING A REALITY. SO WHAT CAN YOU DO TO MAKE YOUR HOME ENERGY EFFICIENT IN 2020? We are all well aware of climate change and how our actions can positively, or negatively, affect it. From reducing waste, using less plastic, cutting out unnecessary car journeys, we can all do our bit to lower CO2 emissions. But did you realise that by installing green and renewable technologies in your home, you can significantly reduce your energy usage, CO2 emissions and your energy bills? So what exactly is a green technology? It is basically anything that reduces emissions, reduces waste or consumes less energy than traditional methods. Some of the most well-known are renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and tidal, however there are many other forms of green technologies. And despite the common misconception that only new-build homes can be eco-homes, these are available to everyone. So there really is no excuse. Everyone can have an eco-home by making some small changes and installing green technologies, and we have pulled together some top tips on how to make you home do good, and look good, in 2020. Solar panels are a great way to harness the natural energy of the sun to heat your home and your hot water. Granted, we aren’t blessed with the hottest climate here in the UK, but by installing solar panels you can make long-term savings, whilst doing your bit for the environment. Although they can be expensive to install, you will make savings in the long term and you can even sell your surplus energy to the National Grid. Heat pumps , whether ground-source - which extracts heat from the ground beneath your home, or air-source, heat pumps are fantastic technologies. Efficient and effective, these pumps will heat your home whilst reducing your CO2 emissions in an instant. 125