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Energy Efficiency and Microgeneration
Much of the energy we consume in our homes and businesses is generated by burning fossil fuels such as coal and gas. It is widely accepted that this practice is unsustainable and that the gases produced contribute to climate change.
In recent years, there have been technological advances that allow for microgeneration. In essence, this means that your home or business is adapted to produce some of its own electricity and/or heat.
Reducing energy demand
Energy efficiency begins with reducing demand. You can achieve cost savings and reduce your impact on the environment in many ways such as
- adequately insulating your home or business
- using higher-efficiency appliances
- using low energy light bulbs.
For more information, including details of the grants available, visit our Home Energy Efficiency page or phone 0800 107 4100.
Introducing microgeneration systems
Once energy demand has been reduced, a further step is to incorporate systems that generate heat and power from renewable and sustainable sources into your home or business.
Some systems described below can be 'bolted on to' your existing system and can have a significant impact on your carbon footprint and energy bills.
Please note that with current technology, it is unlikely that you will be able to rely completely on microgeneration without spending a lot of money.
Microgeneration technologies
There are number of technologies available that can be used individually or in combination to provide energy and heat throughout the year to homes and businesses.
The choice of what is the best, most suitable technology or combination of technologies depends highly on local context and energy requirements of the development.
These pages give supporting information and advice on technologies that may be suitable for new and existing developments in Brighton & Hove. For each technology we have provided basic technology information, advice on suitability to Brighton & Hove context, estimated cost and benefit, product information and useful links.