http://www.yougen.co.uk/ YouGen Blog, latest 20 items Sun, 19 May 2013 04:20:31 +0000 en http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/xcEGeqHewZg/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2148/How+do+I+find+the+best+performing+heat+pump'3F/ Fri, 17 May 2013 09:35:01 +0000 Q: There is a great deal of information on the Internet as regards heat pumps but no information about recommended manufacturers of ground source heat pumps. Please can you help me. I would like someone to recommend which ground source heat pump ie Kensa, Nibe Danfoss performs best.


A: Good question, and not an easy one to answer. I asked someone working at senior level in the industry recently, and his answer was that most of the main manufacturers provide effici[...]]]> Q: There is a great deal of information on the Internet as regards heat pumps but no information about recommended manufacturers of ground source heat pumps. Please can you help me. I would like someone to recommend which ground source heat pump ie Kensa, Nibe Danfoss performs best.


A: Good question, and not an easy one to answer. I asked someone working at senior level in the industry recently, and his answer was that most of the main manufacturers provide efficient kit. It's the design, specification, installation and commissioning of heat pumps that make the difference.


So what's really important is how skilled and experienced is the installer, and what support do they get from the manufacturer. The kind of questions I'd be asking installers are:



How many installations of this type of heat pump have you done?

Can I talk to three previous customers who have had their heat pump running for at least one winter?

Does the manufacturer provide support with sizing, specification and commissioning where necessary? Is this a service I can get? (it may be available at an extra charge).

Are you MCS accredited, and a member of the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC)? This is important because a) you will not be eligible for the RHI if you don't use a MCS installer; b) they will have to meet a higher set of standards than non-members; and c) it will give you more protection if things go wrong.


Find more questions to ask here.


Find out more about how to choose a heat pump

An introduction to heat pumps


Sizing a heat pump correctly is vital for good performance


New heat pumps standards should improve performance


Manufacturers can play a key role in ensuring quality heat pump installation


Find a local heat pump installer


Photo credit: Kensa

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2148/How+do+I+find+the+best+performing+heat+pump'3F/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/2YLyGRZhGbU/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2170/Old+House+Eco+Handbook'3A+a+review/ Thu, 16 May 2013 11:15:01 +0000 Old houses can be green. This is the title of the first chapter of Old House Eco Handbook: a practical guide to retrofitting for energy-efficiency & sustainability by Marianne Suhr & Roger Hunt. It's an encouraging start, as not everyone believes it's possible, and as a result too many people are cold, uncomfortable and paying over the odds to the energy companies.


This guide, which is published in association with the Society for the Protection of[...]]]> Old houses can be green. This is the title of the first chapter of Old House Eco Handbook: a practical guide to retrofitting for energy-efficiency & sustainability by Marianne Suhr & Roger Hunt. It's an encouraging start, as not everyone believes it's possible, and as a result too many people are cold, uncomfortable and paying over the odds to the energy companies.


This guide, which is published in association with the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB), is both practical and beautiful. It's almost a coffee table book, with lots of lovely pictures which both inspire and educate. It's written in a clear, easy to read and easy to understand style (which will come as no surprise to anyone who follows Roger Hunt's excellent blog).


The early chapters are an introduction to the hows and whys of retrofit, where to get advice, who to trust, the importance of maintenance, planning, building regs, choosing materials, and getting the work done.


It gets really meaty when we get to the chapter on the building envelope. It explains terms you didn't know you needed to know such as k-values, hygroscopic buffering and interstitial condensation, and essentially what you need to know or ask to avoid problems with moisture when you insulate and reduce heat loss.


While you are wiser after reading this chapter, you still don't have a definitive answer about what does and doesn't work. Instead the authors provide a list of questions to ask would be suppliers:


> Do they have experience in advising on breathable structures?


> Are they able to carry out a condensation risk analysis?


> Is the condensation risk analysis based on Glaser or a hygrothermal simulation such as WUFI? Avoid any analysis based on Glaser, as it is unlikely to provide accurate modelling of an old building.


> Are they able to supply a detailed written specification?


> Is it tried and tested in this particular application?


> If it is advertised as a breathable product, what does this mean - has it been quantified?


This isn't ideal, I'd prefer definitive guidance. But it isn't clearcut. The 'experts' don't always agree about some of the issues, as a quick look at the comments under Mark Brinkley's review of the book demonstrates!


There's a useful guide to all the main types of insulation products available with a table summarising what they are suitable for, and a brief description of each.


This is a gem of a book. Each time I dip into it I learn more. I highly recommend that anyone who is considering getting work done on an old house buys a copy (old is relative - there's plenty here that's useful for my 1950s house). It will save you from making expensive mistakes, as well as guiding you towards a better outcome. And, if you're anything like me, you'll get pleasure from reading it too.


We've negotiated a discount for YouGen readers: to order Old House Eco Handbook at the special offer price of £24.00 inc. UK p&p (RRP: £30.00)  please call Bookpoint on 01235 400400 and quote the code 46OHEH.

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2170/Old+House+Eco+Handbook'3A+a+review/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/V0tU0w2u-_0/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2144/Who+deals+with+claims+on+an+inverter+warranty'3F/ Tue, 14 May 2013 10:52:01 +0000 Q:I have a quote for the installation of solar panels. The quote says that the inverter is guaranteed for 10 years and that the guarantee is directly with the manufacturer; ie the installer does not wish to be involved in any guarantee claims. Is this normal? Is this contrary to the Sale of Goods Act 1979? The manufacturer of the inverter is highly likely to be located outside of UK eg China.


A: The product warranty is always issued by the manufacturers. However, [...]]]> Q:I have a quote for the installation of solar panels. The quote says that the inverter is guaranteed for 10 years and that the guarantee is directly with the manufacturer; ie the installer does not wish to be involved in any guarantee claims. Is this normal? Is this contrary to the Sale of Goods Act 1979? The manufacturer of the inverter is highly likely to be located outside of UK eg China.


A: The product warranty is always issued by the manufacturers. However, it is generally the installer that acts as intermediary if anything goes wrong. I would expect them to investigate how a manufacturer deals with warranty issues (and how often claims are made) before recommending their inverter or modules.


You may be mis-interpreting a written quote, but I'd be worried if an installer doesn’t want to get involved in any claims. It doesn’t show a great deal of trust in the process of claiming, or much commitment to ongoing service.


I know that some Chinese equipment comes with warranties that require you to send faulty kit back to China at your own cost – and it’s definitely worth avoiding those. Whereas some of the market leaders sort problems out very quickly. In my opinion, the inverter is an area where it’s not worth cutting costs.


It's the installer that usually sorts these things out, and is in a better position to know what's good and what's not. If they are not prepared to be involved in claims, it speaks volumes.


Find out more about inverters for solar PV on YouGen

PV systems need an efficient inverter


Inverters: your questions answered


Micro-inverters vs string inverteres: which works best


Photo: SMA

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2144/Who+deals+with+claims+on+an+inverter+warranty'3F/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/0aEAK-3CFFE/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2168/How+voltage+affects+solar+PV+/ Mon, 13 May 2013 09:40:01 +0000 As most people will know mains voltage in the UK is  - nominally - 230V (it was 240V until we compromised with the European 220V supply).  But why does it change in both time and place even within mainland Britain?


The answer to both stems from Ohm’s law. The voltage drop in the cable to your house is proportional to the current being taken at the time. And of course your neighbours will have an impact on this too, since you most likely share a cab[...]]]> As most people will know mains voltage in the UK is  - nominally - 230V (it was 240V until we compromised with the European 220V supply).  But why does it change in both time and place even within mainland Britain?


The answer to both stems from Ohm’s law. The voltage drop in the cable to your house is proportional to the current being taken at the time. And of course your neighbours will have an impact on this too, since you most likely share a cable to a substation. The variation of the voltage is quite wide, but if it exceeds 253V you can request the electricity network operator to reduce the voltage at the substation. They may be reluctant to comply however, lest it creates a low voltage problem at other times and places (further away from the substation).


Installing solar PV sends energy the other way up the street and the voltage drop to your house becomes a voltage rise. So inverters are required to switch off automatically if the voltage exceeds certain limits. This is also one of the reasons why large PV systems require prior approval. Otherwise the network operator would be constantly responding to complaints of high voltage caused by generation in neighbouring properties. Much better that such voltage issues are identified before the PV is installed, so far as they can be. Revenue will be lost if the inverter is switching off regularly.  Also note that the network operator is only responsible for the voltage at the incoming connection point for the building. The voltage at the inverter could be several volts higher, even in a correctly designed system.


Wiring regulations for solar, and for that matter for electrical wiring in general, were not set with energy losses in mind. They exist to prevent cables overheating and to maintain the correct supply voltages. Even if energy loss was better taken in to account standards would rapidly become out of date. Look how often Part L building regulations for insulation are updated. Even if a house is built to high standards it will rapidly fall behind ‘state of the art.’ With our current knowledge of carbon emissions and rising electricity prices a quick calculation will show that oversizing cables will pay off very quickly. The bonus will be fewer overvoltage problems.


So how do you - or your installer - check the voltage if a problem does arise ? Plug-in meters are readily available (for example from Clas Ohlson) but ideally the voltage needs to be logged over a few days. Monitors used by electricity companies are expensive to buy or hire. Smart meters, and sometimes the inverter itself, could be used for online voltage measurements but they are not normally set up to do so. For the time being I have adapted other devices to fulfil the need. I can see that the voltage in our office ranged from 238V and 254V today.  Otherwise enjoy the sun, and keep half an eye out for a red light.

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2168/How+voltage+affects+solar+PV+/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/mWL275ci0z4/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2165/Feed-in+tariff+rates+for+solar+PV+to+fall+by+3-|5'25+from+1+July+2013/ Thu, 09 May 2013 12:25:01 +0000 Feed-in tariff rates for all solar PV installations under 50kWp will fall by 3.5% from 1 July, even though the  levels of installation to trigger a fall has not been reached. Under the government's rules the three monthly degression can be skipped for two quarters if uptake is low, after which they automatically degress.


Rates for installations of 50kWp and more will remain the same.


The new rates from 1 July to 30 September 2013 ar[...]]]> Feed-in tariff rates for all solar PV installations under 50kWp will fall by 3.5% from 1 July, even though the  levels of installation to trigger a fall has not been reached. Under the government's rules the three monthly degression can be skipped for two quarters if uptake is low, after which they automatically degress.


Rates for installations of 50kWp and more will remain the same.


The new rates from 1 July to 30 September 2013 are:


4kW or less: 14.90p per kWh
>4-10kW: 13.50p / kWh
>10-50kW: 12.57p / kWh
>50-100kW: 11.1p / kWh
>100-150kW: 11.1p / kWh
>150-250kW: 10.62p / kWh
>250kW-5MW: 6.85p / kWh
Stand alone: 6.85 / kWh
Tariff paid for 20 years. Export rate: 4.64p


Click here to download the full table of feed-in tariff rates for solar PV from the Ofgem website.


More information on feed-in tariffs from YouGen

Comprehensive guide to feed-in tariffs


Photo Credit: swanksalot via Compfight cc
]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2165/Feed-in+tariff+rates+for+solar+PV+to+fall+by+3-|5'25+from+1+July+2013/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/WPr3nt7eXLI/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2154/Small+energy+companies+reluctant+to+offer+Green+Deal+finance/ Wed, 08 May 2013 09:12:01 +0000 If you are with a smaller energy supplier, you may have to switch companies in order to get Green Deal finance through your bill. Some smaller suppliers are signed up, but some are strongly against the Green Deal, while others are waiting to see how it goes before taking part.


So which companies have signed up?* Sainsbury's Energy and M&S Energy have both signed up, through their energy partners (British Gas for Sainsbury's and SSE for M&S, both re[...]]]> If you are with a smaller energy supplier, you may have to switch companies in order to get Green Deal finance through your bill. Some smaller suppliers are signed up, but some are strongly against the Green Deal, while others are waiting to see how it goes before taking part.


So which companies have signed up?* Sainsbury's Energy and M&S Energy have both signed up, through their energy partners (British Gas for Sainsbury's and SSE for M&S, both required by law to participate). Opus Energy and Green Energy UK have also signed up. 


Spark Energy, LoCo2 Good Energy, Ecotricity, Cooperative Energy, Utilita and Haven Power are not signed up. 


Good Energy says it has decided to wait to see how the scheme works in practice and may join at a later date. A spokesperson said: "We took this decision because the Government very much designed it around the needs of the Big Six energy suppliers, and didn't take into account how the scheme would work in practice for smaller suppliers... Their business operations are designed around millions of households, rather than tens of thousands. Clearly if the costs of implementing the scheme are spread over a greater number of customers, then they are less for the larger suppliers."


A spokesperson for Ecotricity said: 'We do not feel we are in a position to participate given the current cost and design of the scheme. Energy efficiency is of course hugely important. But as it stands, we believe that our time and customers' money is better spent "turning bills into windmills".' Ecotricity and Good Energy are two of the UK energy companies dedicated to renewable energy generation.


The Cooperative Energy's Business Development Manager Nigel Mason wrote in Cooperative Energy's blog (with the disclaimer that the views are his own and not necessarily the company's): 'I think the Green Deal is a great concept, but it's been designed by economists, not people who understand how reticent we are about big capital projects and major household disruption.' He argues for a less prescriptive solution to the issue of reducing energy demand: paying people for energy savings, and allowing entreprenuerial responses. However, he did not tell us whether or not the Cooperative is likely to participate in the Green Deal.


Haven Power has said they are monitoring the Green Deal closely in order to decide if they will join in the future.


The Green Deal finances energy efficiency measures with repayment built into your energy bill, which under the 'golden rule'  should not be more than the difference in your energy savings from the improvements. The big six energy companies are required to offer Green Deal finance to customers, but smaller energy companies were given the option to 'opt-out' in an effort to ensure that they maintain competitiveness.


*Companies contacted who did not respond: Ebico, Corona Energy, Dong Energy, Dual Energy. 


More information about the Green Deal from YouGen

Green Deal information page


Is the Green Deal right for me?


How do I pay for home energy efficiency improvements?


Cold callers and the Green Deal: what you need to know


Photo credit: nickname

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2154/Small+energy+companies+reluctant+to+offer+Green+Deal+finance/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/zUjC964zlL4/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2151/Heat+pumps+a+no+brainer+says+property+developer/ Tue, 07 May 2013 09:41:01 +0000 A property developer in North Wales has been so impressed with the amount of energy that air source heat pumps have saved his properties over the past few years that he installed one in his own home in Colwyn Bay.

"I first started using ground and air source heat pumps in my developments five years ago in order to meet the requirements of the Government's Code For Sustainable Homes," says John Harvey, managing director at Harvey Homes. "Prior to that, th[...]]]> A property developer in North Wales has been so impressed with the amount of energy that air source heat pumps have saved his properties over the past few years that he installed one in his own home in Colwyn Bay.

"I first started using ground and air source heat pumps in my developments five years ago in order to meet the requirements of the Government's Code For Sustainable Homes," says John Harvey, managing director at Harvey Homes. "Prior to that, they hadn’t been something I had any experience of.


"However, the more I learned about them, the more benefits I discovered, so it was a no-brainer when it came to my own home.


John has installed a Stiebel Eltron WPL23E in his newly built four-bedroom property. It will provide all the heating and domestic hot water as well as reducing CO2 emissions and energy costs.


"So far, I have been extremely happy," says John. "The unit makes virtually no noise which I was pleasantly surprised by and it is extremely discreet so it is easily disguised if I don’t want to see it outside my house.


"Not only that, but once it has been set up, it needs no adjustments. There is an external thermostat that will raise the temperature in the house as the external temperature drops.     


"Knowing that it will also make a considerable difference to the amount I have previously been paying in gas bills is also a plus."

The robust casing of the WPL23E and the special hood for external installation enables the unit to perform equally well in the garden or the yard.

Furthermore, even at temperatures as low as -20°C, the WPL23E can still yield sufficient thermal energy from the outside air as an electric booster heater makes sure that there is enough heating if required.


Gywn Roberts from Ecosystems Wales installed the heat pump. "Having more or less tried and tested every different type and make of air source heat pump on the market, I can safely say that this is one of the best, if not the best, out there," he says.


"The two main advantages of the unit which I always tell my customers about are that it is the quietest and most efficient air source heat pump on the market. It also has a lengthy warranty which offers customers additional peace of mind.

"It is extremely quick and easy to install, and as it is so robust and reliable, even at very low temperatures, it very rarely needs maintenance or repairs. This greatly reduces the number of callouts I have to make once the unit has been installed.”


The WPL23E air source heat pump can be installed externally or internally and works as well in older properties as it does in new-builds.

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2151/Heat+pumps+a+no+brainer+says+property+developer/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/mpCzbEGiQtg/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2159/Building+Control+regulations+for+solar+installations+in+Northern+Ireland/ Fri, 03 May 2013 09:15:01 +0000 Building Regulations is one of the most common things we’re asked about during initial enquiry and survey stage. This isn’t the sexiest of subjects when discussing solar PV, but it is important to understand the rules from the outset. In most cases, and without exception if solar is to be installed on a house, extension or garage, a Building Control application is required in Northern Ireland. 


When completing the MCS certificate, installers are n[...]]]> Building Regulations is one of the most common things we’re asked about during initial enquiry and survey stage. This isn’t the sexiest of subjects when discussing solar PV, but it is important to understand the rules from the outset. In most cases, and without exception if solar is to be installed on a house, extension or garage, a Building Control application is required in Northern Ireland. 


When completing the MCS certificate, installers are now asked to tick one of the options below:


How have building regulations been notified: 


• Before the installation through a full planned building notice with the local area building control office (for Scotland this would be the Verifier)
• Before the installation through an independent building control officer making the application
• After the installation through a self certification Competent Persons Scheme (CPS)
• Is exempt under Schedule 1, Section 0 of the Technical Handbook in Scotland only
• Is exempt under Section 2 of the Building Regulations 2010 in England and Wales only
• Is exempt under Schedule 1 of Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 in NI only.


The fee for the first two options is £120 and the application should be made to the local council Building Control department. You can apply to Building Control retrospectively. In this case, the installer should apply for a Regularisation Certificate and the fee for this is £142. 


We regularly hear that potential customers have been told that solar is exempt from Building Control notification. The last of the options above covers exemption under Schedule 1 of the regulations. Types of building that are exempt are listed below:


Buildings controlled under other legislation
Buildings not frequented by people
Buildings for agriculture and keeping of animals
Temporary buildings
Ancillary buildings
Small detached buildings
Extensions
Other buildings


A full description of the exempted buildings can be viewed by clicking HERE. Having read the list of exemptions, it’s clear that most buildings require a Building Control notification and all homes, extensions and garages require notification. Most installers will complete and submit the application on behalf of the customer by acting as the agent.


It’s best to make the application before the installation (if only to save £22). We always notify the local Building Control office of the date of site commencement and invite them to attend site to witness the installation. We include the mechanical design of the system so this is on record. If the Building Control surveyor is unable to attend, ensure photographs of all key stages of the installation are taken in case they are requested at a later date.


The Building Control NI website can be viewed HERE. The site includes contact details for all Building Control offices and you can download a copy of the application form.


If you are advised you don’t need a Building Control certificate, ask why you are exempt to avoid issues at a later date.


Above is a photograph of an installation in Co. Antrim. Our local Building Control office hadn’t been notified as of November 2012. Because part of the array is installed on the fire escape and covers the windows, I’m not convinced it would receive a regularisation certificate. We do hope the predicted output from the system factored shading from the double chimneys, although we wouldn’t recommend solar be installed on this building.


More information about solar PV from YouGen

NIROC: the financial incentive for solar PV in Northern Ireland explained


Solar PV information page

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2159/Building+Control+regulations+for+solar+installations+in+Northern+Ireland/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/Ab-eTMg2kGo/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2153/How+LED+lighting+can+cut+commercial+electricity+bills/ Thu, 02 May 2013 09:27:01 +0000 LED provides a more efficient method of producing light than other bulbs. This efficiency is because LEDs (light emitting diodes) produce light via through the movement of electrons. In contrast, traditional bulbs pass an electric current through a thin wire, halogen bulbs produce light via the chemical reaction created by a combination of halogen gas and the tungsten filament; and finally fluorescent bulbs use electricity to excite mercury vapour, thus producing visible light.
<[...]]]> LED provides a more efficient method of producing light than other bulbs. This efficiency is because LEDs (light emitting diodes) produce light via through the movement of electrons. In contrast, traditional bulbs pass an electric current through a thin wire, halogen bulbs produce light via the chemical reaction created by a combination of halogen gas and the tungsten filament; and finally fluorescent bulbs use electricity to excite mercury vapour, thus producing visible light.


This difference in light generation, which LEDs possess due to their solid state, results in a much higher efficiency solution which uses up to 90% less energy than traditional bulbs; with less waste of energy on excess heat and movement of particles.


LED lighting has long been considered under-developed and as a result has not been taken up widely by home or business owners. But, thanks to rapid technology developments in the past few years, LED lighting can now provide you with a bright, low cost and low carbon alternative to traditional lighting methods.


How LED lighting can benefit your building

LED is a great way to enhance many business environments. From highlighting specified products or areas in a retail facility, to providing constant bright lighting level in offices throughout the day and even providing lighting in the hospitality industry, particularly in hallways or reception areas which require illumination 24 hours a day. LED lighting helps to reduce the cost of lighting these areas, as well as providing a constant bright light source which is more reliable than traditional bulbs.


The obvious benefit of LED lighting is reduced electricity costs. It can also provide instant, bright and clear light. LEDs are available in warm and cool white shades to suit different situations. LED lighting  lasts for up to 30,000 hours. This means that in an average office environment, requiring 8 hours of constant light daily during the week, an LED light fixture will last approximately 14 and a half years. Even in a building where light is required 24 hours a day, an LED bulb will last just over 6 years!


Cost-savings from LED usage vary between 50 and 90% (depending on what lighting you are currently using). There is also less waste than traditional lighting; due to the infrequency of bulb changes. LED lighting contains no harmful mercury, which compact fluorescent bulbs rely upon to function, making them safer in all locations.


The Costs and Return of LED Lighting

Whilst LED lighting is often ignored due to its higher upfront cost when considering changing your lighting solutions, it is important to consider the fact that LED lighting pays back in a few years and provides a more efficient alternative to halogen and florescent bulbs.


In simple terms, the average contribution of lighting options available can be seen here:










Lighting Option




Expected Hours of Use




Average Lifespan*






Halogen




1,250




8 months






LED




30,000




14 years and 6 months






 

*When illuminated for 8 hours per day, five days a week


The average cost of using different lighting options also varies significantly in terms of cost, halogen bulbs which are often used in commercial buildings cost approximately £204 more to run than LEDs over twenty years;










Lighting Option




Average Cost Per Bulb




Predicted Bulb Changes in 20 Years




Running Cost Per Year




Total Cost Over 20 Years*






Halogen 50W Bulb




£1




30




£10.40




£238






LED 6W Bulb




£9




1




£1.25




£34






 


Even fluorescent lighting will cost you approximately £166.40 more to run than LEDs over twenty years;










Lighting Option




Average Cost
Per Bulb




Predicted Bulb Changes in
20 Years




Running Cost
Per Year




Total Cost
Over 20 Yrs*






Fluorescent
65W† Bulb




£10




5




£13.52




£320.40






LED 25W Bulb




£50




1




£5.20




£154










† Including Ballast

These facts and figures highlight the effectiveness of LED lighting, in terms of cost saving, energy saving and waste savings. While green issues may not be your motivator for installing energy efficient changes, with carbon tax introductions and industry pressures to reduce your carbon footprint, it is more important than ever to consider ways to become more energy efficient; LED lighting can provide a fast and simple option to achieve this goal.


The technical things

LED lighting provides a simple solution to reduce your costs and energy usage instantly.  The lighting options can be easily retro-fitted to any non-domestic property, by qualified electricians, often using the existing fittings.


The primary difference between LED tubes and fluorescent tubes, such as T8s, is that ballast is not required with LED lighting. This difference does not cause any difficulty when changing spotlights such as GU10’s, which can be replaced like-for-like, but is applicable to any current lighting solutions in your building which may use ballast.


Current light fittings which contain magnetic ballast will require a change in starter on the light fixture, whereas electronic ballast lights will need to be adapted to allow the electricity flow to bypass this ballast. Both of these actions can be completed quickly and easily by a trained electrician.


Food for thought…

Just think, adopting LED lighting could reduce your current power needs by 75% or more. The reduction will depend on what fittings are swapped out. Typically a fluorsecent tube of, say, 20-24W including ballast can be changed for a 10W LED – about a 50/60% saving.  A GU10 50W halogen, however, can be changed for a 7W LED – which is an 86% saving. These savingsl help you to meet industry carbon targets, reduce your carbon impact and save you money.


More on low energy lighting from YouGen

Introduction to low energy lighting

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2153/How+LED+lighting+can+cut+commercial+electricity+bills/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/hCYF-xo6iPo/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2163/Why+isn'27t+draught-proofing+EPC'27s+number+one+recommendation'3F+/ Mon, 29 Apr 2013 10:44:01 +0000 Q: I've been wondering about how often the EPC suggests-draught proofing and extreme draught-proofing as the number 1 recommendation? 

Most homes built before the 1950s are really draughty, even if the new builds have low U values for walls, floors etc or good thick insulation, it is rather pointless if draught issues are not dealt with.



I only ask as I want help through the Green Deal with this but don't see the point on wasting time and money doi[...]]]> Q: I've been wondering about how often the EPC suggests-draught proofing and extreme draught-proofing as the number 1 recommendation? 

Most homes built before the 1950s are really draughty, even if the new builds have low U values for walls, floors etc or good thick insulation, it is rather pointless if draught issues are not dealt with.



I only ask as I want help through the Green Deal with this but don't see the point on wasting time and money doing EPC if its only going to recommend a better boiler and external wall Insulation.


A: Well, it doesn’t recommend it very often, and there are a couple of reasons for that. 


Firstly, draught proofing doesn’t make a lot of difference to the cost of heating the home, and the EPC recommendations are required to make sufficient cost savings for an improvement of at least 1 SAP point, otherwise they don’t appear. Draught proofing does make a lot of difference to the comfort of a room, and as it’s generally not too expensive it’s well worth doing, but the EPC recommendations are mainly about saving money.


Secondly, the only form of draught proofing recommended on the EPC is for windows and doors. There is no recommendation for reducing other draughts, such as from unused chimneys or gaps at floor level.  Reducing draughts from these sources can certainly be done, but they can’t appear as a recommendation on the EPC.


In terms of Green Deal, draught proofing is an approved Green Deal improvement measure. This means it’s possible to include it in a Green Deal advice report and subsequent Green Deal plan, but again it’s only windows and doors that are included. Unlike the EPC, there’s no requirement for the improvement to give significant cost savings – they only need to meet the Golden Rule.  This means that they must make enough savings each year to exceed the repayments, including interest, during the year. It’s worth remembering that Green Deal finance is only available for professionally installed improvements, not DIY. There’s more on the Golden Rule in my other blog.


Q: Also who would I complain to about procedures followed by the Wise Group in Glasgow, they do roof insulation, but only deal with draughts if you ask them and won't come back out for draughts alone. This seems rather wasteful in terms of meeting energy performance targets, sending men out to a job multiple times, when the 2 jobs should go hand in hand and are both FREE for the customer!!! Also means the insulation does not really help. So any ideas who i could write to about this?



A: The Wise Group is a social enterprise that works with a number of different organisations to deliver help to Scottish people, and energy efficiency and energy advice are two ways they help. Unfortunately I don’t know which scheme you are describing, so I can’t tell you who is providing the funding for the scheme. If, for instance, the scheme you refer to is funded by the Scottish Government, the Wise Group will be required to follow procedures set out by the Scottish Government for the scheme.


Your first point of contact if you want to comment on their procedures would be the Wise Group themselves. If you didn’t receive a satisfactory answer, you could then take it up with the funding provider.


Photo credit: perspicacious

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2163/Why+isn'27t+draught-proofing+EPC'27s+number+one+recommendation'3F+/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/MK_G9qzQZvQ/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2164/Readers+tips+of+the+month+-+April+2013/ Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:30:01 +0000 "Most cost effective measures are to improve thermal performance of property with good insulation generally," says architect Clinton. "But watch natural ventilation/airtightness to avoid condensation problems unless you are installing a mechanical ventilation system.


Use as many passive measures as possible to reduce reliance on technology, maintenance and break downs."


Clinton lives in a property that is over 100 years old, [...]]]> "Most cost effective measures are to improve thermal performance of property with good insulation generally," says architect Clinton. "But watch natural ventilation/airtightness to avoid condensation problems unless you are installing a mechanical ventilation system.


Use as many passive measures as possible to reduce reliance on technology, maintenance and break downs."


Clinton lives in a property that is over 100 years old, which has been made as thermally efficient as posssible. "I believe in as many passive and non technology methods as possible. These include open solid fuel fire (back-up) to avoid condensation by providing natural ventilation and a conservatory with thick insulated concrete floor to reduce peaks in temperature and provide thermal store."


He has also installed Installed Solar PV to reduce his carbon footprint and dependancy on the grid (weather permitting) and as an investment. More recently he installed an air source heat pump "again to reduce carbon footprint and dependancy on the grid".


Also the prowd owner of an air source heat pump is Prospero, who installed in September last year. "It has worked satisfactorily after initial teething problems, mainly due to the different way to use the heating compared to the existing oil heating. The radiators were upgraded to take account of the lower water temperature provided by the heat pump and it has been the sole source of heating during the winter.


"I still have issues with the fact that the outside sensor seems to have priority over the room sensor to control the heat pump, but by placing the room sensor in various places the problem is largely overcome. It is too early to assess the relative costs yet but early indications are that there will be quite a saving over oil."


Prospero's tips are to get the radiators upgraded when the initial installation is carried out to avoid having to do it later if temperatures aren't high enough. He also recommends getting a reliable firm to do the work (we do too - click here to find one!).


More information on heat pumps from YouGen

Introduction to heat pumps


Key things to consider before installing a heat pump


10 things to ask when choosing an air source heat pump installer


Photo: Glow-worm hybrid airsource heat pump

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2164/Readers+tips+of+the+month+-+April+2013/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/ImKL9loexEw/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2157/Which+solar+panels+are+best'3F+/ Thu, 25 Apr 2013 12:10:01 +0000 Choosing the best solar panel is a bit like choosing the best sandwich for your lunch. What’s better for you – a BLT or a cheese and pickle sandwich? Well, the cheese sandwich wins in terms of lower calories and lower fat, but the BLT contains more protein and more vitamins and nutrients from the vegetables. So it’s a difficult multi-faceted decision, and one that could be argued either way. And that’s even before you’ve looked at salt content, sugar conten[...]]]> Choosing the best solar panel is a bit like choosing the best sandwich for your lunch. What’s better for you – a BLT or a cheese and pickle sandwich? Well, the cheese sandwich wins in terms of lower calories and lower fat, but the BLT contains more protein and more vitamins and nutrients from the vegetables. So it’s a difficult multi-faceted decision, and one that could be argued either way. And that’s even before you’ve looked at salt content, sugar content, sustainability of packaging, carbon footprint, ethics and welfare standards in the supply chain, etc, etc.


It’s much the same for solar panels, with many different criteria that can be used to judge products, and it can be difficult to get good information from installers. This is because the installers themselves are subject to intense marketing pressure from manufacturers of solar panels, with the manufacturers trying to tie down installers to using their particular product. They will do a sales job on the installer by promoting the key benefits of their product. And often, the installer will just then repeat these same benefits to sell to you the customer.


Unfortunately this doesn’t mean that these benefits used to sell panels are either particularly important in the grand scheme of things, or particularly unique among all the products out there.  Most common is choosing a cheap product that is perceived as easier to sell (PV customers tend to be price sensitive), and then talking up its warranties, or other attribute.  It’s quite easy to mislead here – something I call the “Men’s Health” effect; going back to our food analogy, nutritional information in men’s lifestyle magazines will often say something like “This doner kebab contains more vitamin B2 than a grapefruit”.  Whilst this may be technically true, it can certainly mislead the overall benefits by focussing solely on one minor attribute.  When choosing a solar panel you need to be able to read between the lines in a similar way.


Some of you, I’m sure, will be reading this blog hoping for a definitive list of the ‘best’ modules.  It’s not possible I’m afraid, as it depends on how you value the different judgement criteria.  In the same way, I couldn’t give you a list of the healthiest sandwiches without knowing if you value calorie intake more highly than salt content.


So how do you make a judgement? Well a ‘bad’ installer will choose a product, perhaps on the basis of price alone, or because they like what the manufacturers told them, or because they get good supply chain terms.  They will then try and sell you the positive attributes of the panel chosen. A ‘good’ installer, however, will have used their expertise to undertake a full technical assessment of the different products, warranties and prices and provide you with a balanced argument in favour of their chosen product. For example, in my company we rated 30 manufacturers against cell efficiency, measured outdoor performance, long-term degradation, brand value, warranties, speed of supply chain and company ethics and only sell product that scores highly in most, if not all of these aspects. This is a much more nuanced assessment, and I’ll be using future blogs to talk through the details of these different panel attributes more explicitly.


From the customer point of view, it’s still difficult to find the best product for you, because at face value all you will hear is different installers claiming the product they use is the best.  So you need to do a little digging. Here are my top tips for you to at least see who’s done their homework and who hasn’t.


• Ask why they recommend the panels they do. If they only give 1 reason why, be sceptical – one positive attribute does not make a good panel, but several is much more reassuring.


• Ask how they chose what panels they offer?  How comprehensive has their decision-making process been?


• Cost isn’t everything.  If you are being sold a particular product just because it is cheap then that may not be best value in the longer term.


So go careful when choosing what make of solar panel you want for your house.  And make sure your potential installer has looked at product choice as carefully as you.


More information on solar PV from YouGen

Introduction to solar PV


10 tips for choosing a solar installer


Find a solar PV installer and read what their customers say about them

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2157/Which+solar+panels+are+best'3F+/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/4HMlL3_qCDg/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2146/DECC+explains+how+green+deal+and+feed-in+tariffs+work+together/ Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:09:01 +0000 You can use Green Deal finance to help meet the costs of installing solar PV, wind or even microCHP* on your property and receive the Feed In Tariff (FIT) as well. Hydro generation and anaerobic digestion receive FIT but are not eligible for Green Deal finance.


The amount you can finance through Green Deal will depend on how much a home like yours is expected to save on its electricity bill. Even if this is not enough to pay for the full cost, you can still use Gr[...]]]> You can use Green Deal finance to help meet the costs of installing solar PV, wind or even microCHP* on your property and receive the Feed In Tariff (FIT) as well. Hydro generation and anaerobic digestion receive FIT but are not eligible for Green Deal finance.


The amount you can finance through Green Deal will depend on how much a home like yours is expected to save on its electricity bill. Even if this is not enough to pay for the full cost, you can still use Green Deal finance to pay for part of the cost. Your Green Deal Provider will be able to calculate this. The Feed In Tariff payments cannot be included in the calculation.


The following table outlines the how it would work financially. Figures are based on those provided by the Solar Trade Association, and a deemed export of half of your generated electricity.





*Micro combined heat and power of less than 2kW

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2146/DECC+explains+how+green+deal+and+feed-in+tariffs+work+together/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/Qx5c6lwpc_A/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2145/When+will+I+get+renewable+heat+incentive+'28RHI'29+payments'3F/ Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:17:01 +0000 A: As RHI (renewable heat incentive) payments have been delayed again till Spring 2014, do we have to wait till then to get our payment? So there will be no payment in 2013 then?


Q: If you are what the government describes as a 'legacy' applicant, which means someone who has installed a domestic renewable heat system* since 15 July 2009 and meets the (as yet unknown) criteria, then I'm afraid that you are unlikely to get any money until 2014. (The non-[...]]]> A: As RHI (renewable heat incentive) payments have been delayed again till Spring 2014, do we have to wait till then to get our payment? So there will be no payment in 2013 then?


Q: If you are what the government describes as a 'legacy' applicant, which means someone who has installed a domestic renewable heat system* since 15 July 2009 and meets the (as yet unknown) criteria, then I'm afraid that you are unlikely to get any money until 2014. (The non-domestic scheme is already up and running.)


In its recent consultation DECC identified that it may have a problem coping with the number of legacy applicants if they all applied as soon as the scheme opened its doors. It is considering introducing a phased application window, spread over a six month period. Those who installed first could apply first, and those with more recent installations would have to wait a bit longer. However, this was just a proposal, and until the announcement this summer, we won't know how it plans to proceed.


If you are considering a domestic renewable heat installation, then upfront grants in the form of renewable heat premium payments are available until the end of March 2014. This amount will then be taken off the amount of renewable heat incentive you receive when the scheme launches.


*heat pump, biomass boiler or solar thermal systems


Find out more about renewable heat and the renewable heat incentive

Introduction to biomass boilers


Introduction to heat pumps


Introduction to solar thermal (solar water heating)


Introduction to the renewable heat incentive


Photo Credit: LADY KATYA via Compfight cc
]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2145/When+will+I+get+renewable+heat+incentive+'28RHI'29+payments'3F/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/aLAVY4b7l3U/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2149/Infrared+panel+heating'3A+your+questions+answered/ Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:30:01 +0000 What are infrared panels? 


Infrared panels emit a very high ratio of heat as radiant heat. This heats objects directly, rather than warming the air (which is what convection heat does). Other examples of high-radiant heaters include portable halogen heaters, infrared outdoor patio heating, and electric fires. 


Infrared panels are typically in the form of a mirror or glass panel, and can be mounted on the wall or ceiling. They can a[...]]]> What are infrared panels? 


Infrared panels emit a very high ratio of heat as radiant heat. This heats objects directly, rather than warming the air (which is what convection heat does). Other examples of high-radiant heaters include portable halogen heaters, infrared outdoor patio heating, and electric fires. 


Infrared panels are typically in the form of a mirror or glass panel, and can be mounted on the wall or ceiling. They can also be built into furniture.


Infrared is the same as the energy that comes from the sun. Because they work by heating directly, infrared heaters warm you as soon as you turn them on; they don’t need time to warm up a room. On the flip side, when you turn them off, you will get cold again more quickly. They need to be positioned carefully so that the heat they emit is not obstructed. 


Because they heat objects rather than the air, some people find the heat from infrared panels less stuffy, and cite comfort and health as reasons for choosing them.


Do infrared panel heaters save energy? 


Infrared heating is typically electric in the UK, although oil and gas fired infrared heaters do exist. If you are not already using electricity for heating, using any electric heater will probably be more expensive because the cost of gas is much cheaper per unit than the cost of electricity.


The running cost of any electric heater depends on its rating (watts/kWs), with higher watts indicating higher costs. Whether infrared is an efficient option for you depends on the building you are heating and your circumstances. Because infrared heat heats objects, not the air, it is more efficient where there is a lot of air exchange, poor insulation or high ceilings. Their instant nature makes them a good option if you need instant heat for just one room. 


What do people say about infrared heat? 


Stacey at B My Office, a Devon-based virtual assistant, said:  "We wanted something that was a cheaper alternative to our electric fan heaters. It heats the room very well,  and is a nicer heat - less stuffy. The only time we needed extra heat was when it was -5 degrees, but I have had that experience with standard heaters too."   


Annette Witheridge, co-owner of the Salty Monk restaurant and B&B said about the infrared heating they use in their fitness room: 

“Compared to the gas heating in the main building, the infrared heating in the fitness room is very efficient and low cost [this is not a direct comparison, as the main building is older and less well-insulated]. It takes up little or no space, and it gives off a nice feeling of heat. It’s like standing in the sun. There’s no hot dry air.”


Historic Scotland installed infrared panels in one of its holiday cottage properties. Roger Curtis, technical officer for Historic Scotland, said that the decision was as much about a human-friendly form of heating as it was about efficiency. He said:  "I think it’s a better way of delivering thermal comfort in a way that is physiological comfortable. Breathing warm air isn’t that good for you. So there are sort of medical reasons why infrared heating is good. And of course people always heated themselves with radiant sources, eg fires." Although it hasn't been installed long enough to make any conclusions about it's effectiveness yet, Mr. Curtis thinks infrared might be best used with another form of heating, such as a woodburning stove. 


How much do infrared panel heaters cost? 


They are more expensive than other electric space heaters. Infrared heating panels come in various sizes and designs. Depending on the size and make, standard mirror or glass panels cost in the range of £150 to £500. More elaborate designs cost more. 


One company sells a 250 watt panel  (30x90cm, 2.5cm deep and 3.5kg) for £160, and an 800 watt panel (60 cm x 120cm, 2.5 cm deep and 12.5kg) for £420. 


Radiant heating is eligible for non-domestic Green Deal finance. 


What size panel is best?


Larger panels emit more heat. What size panel you need depends on how well your building retains heat as well as what your heating requirements are. For older and less insulated homes, a 250watt panel might be right for a bathroom or hallway and 850watt panel for the living room or bedroom. For a modern, super-insulated home, a 250watt panel might work for the living room. For an office, you need to consider the size of the space as well as where people spend most time. Some offices have infrared panels near to reception to warm guests immediately, for example. To produce the same feeling of warmth, a rough estimate is that a 600w infrared heater can replace a 1.5kW convection heater. 


Is installation required? 


There are two options: have an electrician install them so that they are programmable, or plug them into an electric socket and use them directly with the controls they come with, like a portable electric heater. How much installation will cost depends on how many panels are installed, but should be less than a couple of days work by an electrician. 


Are there any dangers?


Panels can reach surface temperatures of more than 100 degrees C. Children should not be allowed near them, and like with any heater they should be kept clear of flammables, like furniture and curtains.


Is it safe to use the heater near computer equipment? 


Many offices have them installed near desks. Obviously, they shouldn’t be close to any potential fire hazard. But they will not affect machinery. 


Are there other types of infrared heaters? 


Infrared panels are one form of infrared heater. There are two broad types of infrared heaters: near infrared and far infrared. Infrared panels use far infrared energy, the spectrum of infrared farthest from visible light. Near infrared heaters, which include heat lamps and infrared patio heaters, use the spectrum of infrared closest to visible light, and still emit some light (the familiar orange glow of an outside pub smoking room). Other forms of Infrared heaters are commonly used in industrial applications and animal husbandry, but infrared panels are more common for home and office use. 


Do they emit an orange glow? 


Infrared panels do not emit any orange glow. 


How does infrared heat work? 


Infrared is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength longer than visible light and shorter than microwaves. The warming energy from sunshine is infrared. Unlike other heating systems, infrared heaters do not work by warming the air; they work by directly warming objects. In a space heated with infrared, people will absorb the heat as well as the building fabric and objects in the room, so the space itself may become warmer over time (like in passive solar heating, where building fabric absorbs heat from the sun and re-radiates that heat out). 


photo credit: Mutiheat & Energy Systems

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2149/Infrared+panel+heating'3A+your+questions+answered/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/SAJpnqy2fUg/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2156/REAL+Code+becomes+Renewable+Energy+Consumer+Code+'28RECC'29/ Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:21:01 +0000 The consumer code for the domestic renewable energy sector has changed its name from the ‘REAL Consumer Code’ to the ‘Renewable Energy Consumer Code’ (RECC). The new name better describes the nature and purpose of the Code, and better reflects the fact that the Code is just one of several schemes operated by Renewable Energy Assurance Ltd (REAL).


Anyone installing a microgeneration system of up to 50kW, who wishes to receive the feed-in tar[...]]]> The consumer code for the domestic renewable energy sector has changed its name from the ‘REAL Consumer Code’ to the ‘Renewable Energy Consumer Code’ (RECC). The new name better describes the nature and purpose of the Code, and better reflects the fact that the Code is just one of several schemes operated by Renewable Energy Assurance Ltd (REAL).


Anyone installing a microgeneration system of up to 50kW, who wishes to receive the feed-in tariff, or a renewable heat system should ensure that their installer is accredited by MCS and a member of RECC.

The Code is one of the first to be approved by the Trading Standards Institute (TSI) since it took over responsibility for approving consumer codes from the Office of Fair Trading on 1 April 2013. Code members are entitled to use the Scheme logo developed by TSI.


Administration of the Code remain will be the same, and the previous name for the rest of the year while REAL updates its materials and while Code members and stakeholders have a chance to update theirs and adjust to the new name. Code members’ materials and certificates showing the old logo will remain valid for the rest of 2013.

As well as the Renewable Energy Consumer Code, REAL also administers the Biofertiliser Certification Scheme, the Green Gas Certification Scheme , in the anaerobic digestion sector; the Compost Certification Scheme, Compostable Packaging Certification and ‘Home Compostable’ Certification in the organics recycling sector [5]; and is responsible, as part of the Green Deal Oversight and Registration Body with Gemserv, for the Green Deal Code of Practice. REAL will shortly be launching its own website, distinct from the RECC website, with links to all the schemes it runs.
 

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2156/REAL+Code+becomes+Renewable+Energy+Consumer+Code+'28RECC'29/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/u1myn5qNU14/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2147/How+can+I+prevent+my+solar+PV+panels+being+stolen'3F/ Wed, 17 Apr 2013 09:32:01 +0000 Q: I have a holiday home in France and I'd love to install solar. my concern, however, is the risk of theft. The property is quite isolated and we won't be there a lot of the time. Is it easy to take down solar panels? Are there more portable panels that lend themselves to this better?


A: Recently I heard of a case of stolen solar panels for the first time, and I as a result I took some soundings with people about what the risks are and what you can d[...]]]> Q: I have a holiday home in France and I'd love to install solar. my concern, however, is the risk of theft. The property is quite isolated and we won't be there a lot of the time. Is it easy to take down solar panels? Are there more portable panels that lend themselves to this better?


A: Recently I heard of a case of stolen solar panels for the first time, and I as a result I took some soundings with people about what the risks are and what you can do to prevent theft.


Most of the people I spoke with were shocked to hear about the theft (which was a ground mounted array of solar PV modules, plus the inverter). It does not appear to be common here (yet). I can’t comment about the risk in France. However, I understand that solar fields in Germany do tend to have CCTV and other security measures.


There are fixings that you can get which make it very difficult to remove the panels from the rails or ground mount frame. However, while this makes them more less likely to be stolen, it also makes it difficult to remove a module if something goes wrong with it, so it’s not an ideal solution.


It goes without saying, but I’ll say it anyway, it’s worth checking with your insurer whether your solar installation is covered under your home insurance, and if not, it may be worth getting separate cover.


I don't know what the system of incentives etc in France is, but here it wouldn't make sense to have portable panels. You want them to be generating all year to maximise the return on your investment. This would not necessarily be the case if you are off grid, and were storing electricity in batteries, and were absent much of the time.


Find out more about solar PV on YouGen

An introduction to solar PV


Financial incentive for solar PV (the feed-in tariff)


Find a local solar PV installer


Photo Credit: david.nikonvscanon via Compfight cc
]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2147/How+can+I+prevent+my+solar+PV+panels+being+stolen'3F/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/MeZ7FcEy7Fk/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2161/And+the+winner+is+-|-|-|-|-|/ Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:30:01 +0000 YouGen's energy saving and renewables photo competition has ended, and with a great selection of submissions from across the country. We had photos of DIY, wood-burning stoves, solar panels and windmills. Some of the photos were funny, and some artistic, but they all inspired energy efficiency.


The winning photo, as determined by vote, was of some wind turbines behind some grazing cows at Caplor Farm. A couple of my personal favourites were this photo of [...]]]> YouGen's energy saving and renewables photo competition has ended, and with a great selection of submissions from across the country. We had photos of DIY, wood-burning stoves, solar panels and windmills. Some of the photos were funny, and some artistic, but they all inspired energy efficiency.


The winning photo, as determined by vote, was of some wind turbines behind some grazing cows at Caplor Farm. A couple of my personal favourites were this photo of a poodle who loves her solar PV, and this photo from a DIY energy efficiency enthusiast selling the switch to low-energy lighting.


You can see all of the submissions here.


A big thank you to everyone who entered and voted for photos.

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2161/And+the+winner+is+-|-|-|-|-|/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/GEotCkpb5yA/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2155/Key+things+to+consider+before+installing+a+heat+pump/ Tue, 16 Apr 2013 08:52:01 +0000 Unlike fossil fuel boilers, heat pumps are unforgiving when it comes to sizing. With a fossil fuel boiler increasing the size to add a safety factor is generally acceptable. The cost difference between a 20kW or 30kW boiler is not large. However, increasing the size of a ground source heat pump can have a marked effect on the cost and cause issues with cycling of the heat pump. Fitting a smaller heat pump also has an effect as the heat pump runs harder, relies on in-built expensive imme[...]]]> Unlike fossil fuel boilers, heat pumps are unforgiving when it comes to sizing. With a fossil fuel boiler increasing the size to add a safety factor is generally acceptable. The cost difference between a 20kW or 30kW boiler is not large. However, increasing the size of a ground source heat pump can have a marked effect on the cost and cause issues with cycling of the heat pump. Fitting a smaller heat pump also has an effect as the heat pump runs harder, relies on in-built expensive immersion heaters and ultimately could cause the ground to freeze.


Some key points to remember when looking at any heat pump ground source or air source are:-


Sizing a heat pump

Sizing of the heat pump should follow MCS guidelines. This means the heat pump needs to be sized for 100% of the heating load without the use of in-built immersion heaters. Immersion heaters are allowed but only when the heat pump needs to go outside of its design conditions. The more immersion heaters are used the higher the running costs as you are paying for direct electricity. Heat loss calculations should be completed to provide information on the heat pump peak heat load and annual load which will be used to size the ground arrays.


Sizing heat emitters for a heat pump

Heat emitters should be sized for the lowest possible flow temperatures. Any heat pump works more efficiently the lower the required outlet temperature. For example underfloor in screed generally requires a flow temperature of around 35C, where as radiators require 45-50C. Even this 10 to 15C rise in outlet temperature can result in a 25% drop in efficiency. Remember if underfloor is used, a higher flow temperature might still be required if wooden floors or thick carpets/rugs are placed over the underfloor pipes.


Insulation with a heat pump

If the insulation of the property is not as expected then the sizing of the heat pump calculated will be wrong. This might mean that the heat pump (in order to keep the building warm) has to run at a higher flow temperature or run the internal immersion heaters which as mentioned above reduces efficiency. In extreme cases the heat pump at maximum output might not be able to produce enough heat to actually keep the building warm.


Heat pump control strategy and installation

The control strategy and installation needs to be completed to maximise the use of the heat pump and minimise the use of any immersion heaters. DHW production needs to be timed to suit the end user while providing the most efficient use of the heat pump. Again to produce DHW (domestic hot water) the heat pump needs to run at a higher temperature reducing the efficiency of the heat pump.


MCS guidelines

With the introduction of the MCS guidelines for heat pump installations, issues with sizing and installation should now be avoided, leading to installations having the best possible running costs. However with the Government dragging their heels regarding the RHI and the additional costs of complying with the MCS guidelines we are now seeing the development of a two-tier market – MCS approved installations and non-MCS approved installations. This is a dangerous situation and one which could dent customer perception of heat pump technology. 


Photo: Kensa

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2155/Key+things+to+consider+before+installing+a+heat+pump/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/YouGen/~3/7EqLZ8cA8f4/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/2142/Miscanthus'3A+a+sustainable+alternative+to+wood+fuel/ Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:27:01 +0000 Concerns that we will eventually run out of biomass wood fuel have been refuted by the Forestry Commission which says it that the wood fuel industry will be sustainable for many years yet.


It estimates that the woodfuel industry could generate £1 billion and support more than 15,000 jobs in the UK. It could also improve the management of English woodlands, around half of which are currently under-managed, as trees in dense woods are thinned to produce the fue[...]]]> Concerns that we will eventually run out of biomass wood fuel have been refuted by the Forestry Commission which says it that the wood fuel industry will be sustainable for many years yet.


It estimates that the woodfuel industry could generate £1 billion and support more than 15,000 jobs in the UK. It could also improve the management of English woodlands, around half of which are currently under-managed, as trees in dense woods are thinned to produce the fuel. Opening up the forests will also benefit wildlife. 


According to Forestry Commission chairwoman Pam Warhurst: "about half of the woodland in England is under-managed. This means there is a great deal of wood, at least two million tonnes a year, that could be used for woodfuel and it is just sitting there as woodlands slowly suffer. 


"This could supply enough energy to heat the equivalent of 800 hospitals or 3,000 schools and save 1.5 million tonnes of CO2 a year, roughly the emissions from three million barrels of crude oil."


With this in mind, heating our homes, businesses and social buildings looks perfectly sustainable with biomass (wood fuel).  But there is an alternative. And that alternative is energy crops.


So what are energy crops?

Energy crops are a form of fuel which can be frequently replenished, providing us with a completely sustainable biomass fuel source. At Fair Energy, we regularly receive enquiries about a popular energy crop known as Miscanthus.  Here are some key facts about this rhizome crop:


• Miscanthus is one of the most productive and environmentally friendly means of producing biomass.  It is a true Energy Crop with a 1:33 energy return per ha compared with Oil Seed Rape at 1:4.


• Miscanthus is naturally harvested dry circa 15% annually, therefore producing a higher CV than fuels containing 30% moisture or more.  Growers growing their own fuel on their own land can produce fuel at £0.0625/kwh which includes crop establishment cost, annual harvest and inflation, before the additional benefit of any government-backed RHI payment.


• Miscanthus produces double the yield of woodland and is harvested annually, whilst completing the carbon cycle neutrally.


• DEFRA has said that the UK could grow up to 3.63 million hectares of Energy crop without impinging on food production.


• The oldest Miscanthus crops in the UK are 29 years old and still producing high biomass yields.


Some biomass boiler manufacturers guarantee their systems to burn Miscanthus, so if you are looking to invest in a system and wish to consider Miscanthus as a fuel, this is something you should be checking before you make your purchase as not all systems are suitable.  


The technical stuff

When burning Miscanthus, the burn chamber of the boiler can exceed the temperature achieved when burning regular wood chips.  This is due to the fuel being significantly dryer than wood chip (approximately 40%).  The boiler is therefore not using energy to draw moisture out of the fuel as it combusts, so temperatures can easily exceed 1,000°c.  


The more advanced systems on the market can easily deal with this by factory-fitting a kit which re-circulates exhaust gases during combustion to safely restrict the combustion process to below 1,000°c.  If dry fuel is burnt without this precaution, a process named ‘clinkering’ can form during which molten ash creates volcanic type rocks, which then stick to internal parts of the boiler with damaging effect.


So what does this all mean?

By making your boiler selection wisely, you can future proof your system and ensure a sustainable energy supply.  And if you are someone that has their doubts about wood fuel past 2020, you can opt for an energy crop friendly boiler and you will open many more doors to fuel suppliers in the future.


Picture: Fred Thomson, technical surveyor at Fair Energy


With thanks to Mike Cooper of Miscanthus Nurseries (for factual information).

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