There is no doubt that the average UK homeowner is really feeling the pinch when it comes to paying their energy bill. There are six major energy companies in the UK and they comprise 99% of our choice. Worst of all, the symmetry between their price increases over the last few years suggests that they are working in tandem. Essentially, home energy is becoming monopolised and this is allowing these companies to charge what they like. The UK government is trying to combat this by using renewable energy sources like wind turbines at sea but this is an extremely expensive solution that is being passed on to the public. So, how do the new home heating systems compare to ones we have relied on for decades?
Cost
Traditional heating systems include boilers, fireplaces, ranges, electricity, gas and oil heaters. All of these options are readily available from the UK’s energy companies but at an increasingly high price. In fact, it’s estimated that the average family of four in the UK could be paying more than double what they are now for home heating in 10 years time. This would take their heating bill alone to £200 a month, a price most families simply can’t pay. New heating systems utilise solar energy and wind power. You can add solar panels or a turbine to your roof but neither are cheap. On the plus side, they will save you thousands of pounds in the next 20 or so years and you may even get a grant to help you.
Space
If you are using traditional heating systems, you need to find containers to store them. Solid fuels and oil require large, bulky containers which can be unsightly. There is also the mess made by using fossil fuels. This will lead to a colossal bill. Renewable energy systems are clean and reasonably reliable. Although the sun doesn’t always shine in the UK, the solar panels will store the excess energy it takes from the sun for later use. Besides, renewable energy should be used to gradually replace traditional heating systems. When the solar panels are being ineffective, you can always fall back on the dirty energy alternative.
Environment
There is no question that old heating systems are remarkably bad for the environment. Centuries of industry has created an enormous environmental problem which has been exacerbated in the last 50 years. Old heating systems are part of the problem as they cause massive emissions when burnt. The more we use, the larger our carbon footprint becomes. In contrast, new heating systems harness the power of the elements to create energy and heat. You can create your own heat without causing emissions. As a result, your carbon footprint shrinks rapidly.
It seems clear that you need to consider the possibility of using new heating systems which are powered by renewable energy. The old heating systems which are powered by fossil fuels have served us well but perhaps we need to make a change for our good and that of future generations. Besides, renewable energy releases the vice-like grip that the energy companies currently have on us.
