Renewable energy

Renewable energy is derived from renewable sources, such as the sun, wind, water or plants. Most conventional energy sources are derived from fossil fuels such as oil, gas and coal, see our Why bother section for more information on this. If your home is already well insulated and you buy your electricity on a green tariff but you still want to do more, you could. For example, consider heating your home with a ground source heat pump, heating your hot water with solar energy or even generating electricity from solar panels (photovoltaics). Go to our grants page for information on financial assistance towards all these technologies.

Our information sheets explain how each of the technologies work. We have also created a specialist wood fuel advice service.

For further information on renewable energy or if you would like to attend a training course, the following organisations’ websites provide in depth information:

• Energy Saving Trust
• National Energy Foundation
• Centre for Alternative Technology

If you want to get involved in a renewable energy project in your local community go to the Community page.

For a comprehensive list of installers of micro-renewable energy technologies working in Cornwall please visit the Cornwall Sustainable Energy Partnership Resource Centre.

Organisations

For information regarding grants for renewable energy contact the ‘Low Carbon Building Programme’ regarding it’s ‘Stream 2’ funding on FREEPHONE 0800 915 0990 or alternatively http://www.lowcarbonbuildings.org.uk/