The most important energy saving initiative is insulation with low embodied energy (the energy used to extract or manufacture the insulant) for example thermafleece.
The second is making best use of passive solar gain (the light and heat that comes through the windows) to heat the internal spaces. Dense buildings will retain the heat best. An example of this is the warmth given off by a granite wall after a hot day.
Once these issues have been considered you might want to think about micro energy generation, such as solar or wind power.
The following table ahows some estimated payback times for various energy saving devices:
|
Source |
Installation Cost | Annual saving | Payback time |
Solar water heating |
£2,000 | £150 | 13 years |
|
Solar electricity (PV) |
£7,000 | £150 | 47 years |
Wind (1kw model) |
£2,000 | £200 | 10 years |
|
Heat Pump |
£3,000 | £300 | 10 years |
Biomass System |
£4,000 | £300 | 13 years |
|
Energy Saving bulb |
£5 | £7 | 9 months |
Source: Home Building Magazine, Sep 2006