Keep cosy and save money

With energy costs so high, in 2023 we are all searching for ways to reduce our usage and improve our home’s energy efficiency. And as part of their efforts to meet Net Zero targets for 2050, the government outlined that all new homes must produce 31% fewer carbon emissions than was previously acceptable. By 2033, all residential housing in Scotland is expected to have an EPC of at least C. In Scotland, less than half of private homes currently meet this requirement, so it seems we have a long way to go. Not to worry, however, as we are seeing some trends for 2023 that address this issue, whether you are building from scratch or undertaking a retrofit.

Energy advice from the experts

Underfloor heating

More and more people are opting for electric heating solutions – and electric underfloor heating is proving to be a popular choice. Increasingly, electric underfloor heating is paired with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or heat pumps. As it is suited to new-build homes and renovations, the popularity of electric underfloor heating is increasing for those preparing for Net Zero.

Heat pumps norm in new build homes and renovations, putting you in full control of your energy usage- anytime, anywhere. Wi-Fi enabled technology connects your heating to your mobile phone. It will track your energy usage and learn your habits to provide a customised heating schedule. Or you can adjust the system manually from anywhere using the app. This makes it easy to save energy when you are not home and get it nice and cosy when you are ready to return. underfloor heating is increasing for those customised heating schedule. Or you can adjust the system Did you know that poorly insulated walls account for 35%-40% of a board or blown insulation will help make sure you are not paying good money to

Heat pumps powered by clean, renewable energy can be the way forward for UK homes in a Net Zero future. There is virtually no property type or architectural era that is unsuitable for a heat pump. From new builds to Victorian mid-terraces to pre-WWII semis and a 1960s block of flats, heat pumps can be successfully installed in homes from almost every style and era. The range of different heat pumps include low and high temperature air source, ground source, or geothermal and hybrid heat pumps incorporated with a gas boiler.

Smart meters

Smart heating or cooling systems are becoming the

Don’t skimp on the insulation

Did you know that poorly insulated walls account for 35%-40% of a home’s heat loss? And that 25% of heat is lost through the roof of a poorly insulated home? Blanket, board or blown insulation will help make sure you are not paying good money to heat the great outdoors.

Solar PV - climate friendly homes

Solar PV - climate friendly homes

Solar PV is a green buzzword in home building and renovation circles these days, but what exactly is it? PV stands for photovoltaic, and this is technology that converts sunlight into electrical energy at the atomic level. A single PV device stands for photovoltaic, and this is technology that converts sunlight into electrical energy at the atomic level. A single PV device is called a cell, made up of semiconducting materials that are as thin as only four human hairs. The cells are connected in chains to form larger panels and sandwiched between glass or plastic to protect them from the Scottish weather.

Consumers can now apply for: or plastic to protect them from the Scottish weather. for: the remaining cost of a heat pump installation. A grant of up to £7,500 to cover up to 75% of the combined cost of home energy

A grant of up to £7,500 to install a heat pump; if the household is eligible for the rural uplift, the grant value is up to £9,000.

An optional interest-free loan of up to £7,500 towards the remaining cost of a heat pump installation.

A grant of up to £7,500 to cover up to 75% of the combined cost of home energy efficiency improvements; if the household is eligible for the rural uplift, the grant value is up to £9,000.

An interest-free loan of up to £6,000 for battery storage systems.

An interest-free loan of up to £6,000 for battery storage systems.

To find out more, visit the Home Energy Scotland website. Advisors are also available to guide you through the process.

To find out more, visit the Home Energy