Are You Ready For Renewables? 


Are you trying to save money?

Or is it to save the world?

Further down this page we have developed a checklist of things you should consider before you go any further. If you use this list it will help you make a quicker more effective decision. Also below here are a number of FAQ's which we are constantly asked, if you don't find an answer on our site, please call 0800 619 1262


Have You Got A Budget In Mind?

Investments in renewables can cost several thousand pounds, and in the short term it is arguably cheaper to use normal fossil fuel. 

Payback is also sometimes longer than some other energy measures but the benefits are better. Reliance on fossil fuels is harmful to the climate, and as fossil fuel prices fluctuate more and more as fuel becomes more scarce, renewables become more essential everyday. With renewables you can:

-   Tap into unlimited natural fuel sources 

-   Reduce your impact on the environment

-   Become more self sufficient

-   Combined with energy efficiency, save money as well



Freesource Energy Checklist


To help you decide here is a checklist of things to consider:

1) Are you doing this for the right reason? Renewables without energy saving measures won't save you money for a few years, so if it's money you want to save then look at number 2.

2) Have you looked at what energy efficiency measures you can do to save money first? We can help you get in touch with people who can help with this

3) Have you collected the information you need to help you make this decision such as your energy bills, or simply, have you discussed your energy usage with your family?

4) Do you know your local planning authority? We can find this out if you are not sure?

5) Have any of your neighbours expressed an interest in renewables or already have some? This can often help with planning applications

6) Think about your location, it will be very useful to know where your house is situated when choosing the right technology

7) We recommend you work out a budget before you investigate further and think in terms of the overall benefits not just cost.

If you are still wrestling with the cost issue, think of when you last bought a car, or double glazing. Neither have a quick return, but both are a neccessary investment requiring considered thought.


Frequently Asked Questions

This list is just starter for ten and many questions are already covered in other areas of our website. If you have any further questions please contact Freesource on 0800 619 1262

1. Is our climate suitable for solar power?

The short answer is yes. Our product range is proven to generate power for hot water and electricity from daylight. Sun strength is important but in most panels generate some energy even on cloudy days.

2. Is my house suitable to have a wind turbine on the roof?

At Freesource we believe there are many houses where roof mounted applications are possible, but we can not guarantee over 20 years a roof mounted turbine will not damage your building. If you wish to consider one of these turbines then the key element here is your wind resource - if you don't have enough wind, don't do it.

3. Can I tap into geothermal energy?

This question is usually related to Ground Source Heat Pumps. The answer is complicated. In theory systems can collect this heat from geothermal energy, but geothermal energy is derived from the earths core and does not occur very often in the UK without very expensive technology in the right regions. The good news is that Ground Source Heat Pumps only need SOLAR energy from the sun heating the earth, so don't confuse this with geothermal.

4. Is wood really a renewable energy?

If you are happy with the idea that a tree left to rot produces as much Co2 as burning it, then yes. You can plant new trees once you have burnt others which reduces Co2.

5. Can I really make a difference with renewable energy?

In a community sense you can do a lot by investing in renewables. Right now investers in renewable energy become pioneers in their area and can educate their neighbours to save energy and also take up the challenge.

6. Can renewable energy save money?

Provided you have considered all energy saving possibilities as well then renewable energy can save you money very nicely. If you are not concerned with payback, then be happy with the fact that you are amongst a growing band of people who are really looking for a better cleaner future.

7. When are prices likely to drop for renewable energy products?

This is tricky to answer and varies depending on the product type. Solar PV is the biggest issue due to a shortage of silicon globally, but most technologies are rapidly entering mainstream use, and this will bring about changes in the marketplace.

8. Are non-European products as good for the environment?

Freesource categorically state they do not wish to deprive any nation of economic growth. Freesource just believes it should purchase European based technologies to reduce their transport miles and therefore carbon miles.

9. Can I buy British renewable energy products?

Yes, depending on availability from the manufacturers. Wind Turbines and biofuels are fast growing sectors.

10. Do I need planning permission for renewable energy technology?

Large scale installations which are visible are almost certainly going to require planning permission. Small scale installations MAY require planning permission although there are moves to reduce this need by granting "permitted development" rights to certain products and location types. Freesource recommend contacting your local planning authority and asking them for their requirements.