With the rising cost of energy in Northern Ireland, most households are seeking ways to reduce their reliance on the national grid. By investing in solar energy and other eco-friendly products, you can not only save money but also contribute to a greener future. In this article, we’ll discuss how solar panels, home battery storage, solar diverters, and other eco-friendly products can help you become less dependent on the national grid and reduce your energy bills.
The Rising Cost of Energy in Ireland
Despite the recent announcement in the budget that the EPG scheme has been extended until June 2023, consumers in Northern Ireland are set to see electricity prices rise by around 10p per unit from the start of April 2023.
The cost of energy in Northern Ireland has been steadily increasing due to various factors, such as the fluctuating prices of oil and gas, as well as infrastructure investments. These rising costs have had a significant impact on households, prompting many to look for alternative ways to meet their energy needs.
Solar Panels: A Key Solution to Reducing Electricity Costs
Solar panels are a practical and effective solution to reduce your reliance on the national grid. By harnessing the power of the sun, solar panels convert sunlight into electricity that can be used to power your home. With the right solar panel system in place, you can generate enough electricity to significantly reduce or even eliminate your electricity bill.
While there are currently no grants available for the installation of solar panels, they can be used to heat your home and hot water when working in conjunction with an air source heat pump (ASHP). An ASHP is an increasingly popular alternative to a traditional gas boiler. Thanks to the government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) program, new customers can receive financial support to switch to an ASHP, which, when combined with solar panels, can eliminate energy bills.
Home Battery Storage: Store Power for Future Use
To further increase the benefits of solar panels, consider installing a home battery storage system. These systems store excess solar-generated electricity that can be used during times of low sunlight or high energy demand. By utilising stored power, you can further reduce your reliance on the national grid and save more on your energy bills. Home battery storage systems are becoming more affordable and efficient, making them an excellent investment for homeowners looking to optimise their solar energy usage.
Solar Diverters: Heat Your Hot Water and Home
Solar diverters are another valuable addition to your solar power system. These devices redirect surplus solar energy to heat your hot water and, in some cases, your home. By using solar diverters, you can reduce your reliance on gas or oil for heating purposes, leading to further cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint. A well-designed solar panel and diverter system can provide a significant portion of your home’s heating and hot water needs.
Switching to Eco-Friendly Products: Reduce Your Gas Bill and Remove Your Electric Bill
In addition to adopting solar energy solutions, switching to eco-friendly products can help you save on your gas and electric bills. For instance, energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting consume less electricity, reducing your overall energy consumption. Similarly, installing proper insulation and using smart thermostats can decrease your reliance on gas for heating. By making these simple changes, you can not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable environment.
Becoming less reliant on the national grid in Northern Ireland is possible with the right combination of solar panels, home battery storage, solar diverters, and eco-friendly products. By investing in these technologies, you can significantly reduce your energy bills and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. If you’re interested in exploring solar power solutions and related products, contact us to learn more about how we can help you transition to a more self-sufficient, eco-friendly lifestyle.
