There are government grants which can significantly cut the cost of installing measures to generate your own heat and electricity in a non-polluting way. These are available through the Government's Low Carbon Buildings Programme and can save you the following:
| Technology | Maximum Amount of Grant |
| Solar photovoltaics | Maximum of £2,000 per kW of installed capacity, subject to an overall maximum of £2,500 or 50% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower |
| Wind turbines | Maximum of £1,000 per kW of installed capacity, subject to an overall maximum of £2,500 or 30% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower |
| Small hydro | Maximum of £1,000 per kW of installed capacity, subject to an overall maximum of £2,500 or 30% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower |
| Solar thermal hot water | Overall maximum of £400 or 30% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower |
| Ground source heat pumps | Overall maximum of £1,200 or 30% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower |
| Automated wood pellet fed room heaters/stoves | Overall maximum of £600 or 20% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower |
| Wood fuelled boiler systems | Overall maximum of £1,500 or 30% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower |
There are a number of conditions you must fulfil before qualifying for a grant:
1. You must have installed the following energy efficiency measures in your home:
a. insulated the whole of the loft of the property to meet current building regulations e.g. 270mm of mineral wool loft insulation or suitable alternative
b. installed cavity wall insulation (if you have cavity walls)
c. fitted low energy light bulbs in all appropriate light fittings
d. installed basic controls for your heating system to include a room thermostat and a programmer or timer
2. You need to obtain a quote for a certified product from a certified installer. You can request a quote from a qualifying installer through this site. Just choose which technology you want and fill out an enquiry form.
3. Once you have a quote, you need to apply for a grant online. You need to complete the application yourself, i.e. an installer can't do it on your behalf.
The on-line application form, plus full details, terms and conditions can be found at http://www.lowcarbonbuildings.org.uk/how/householders/
