Is hydropower renewable?
Hydropower – otherwise known as hydroelectricity – is a fast-growing form of energy generation. It has been used for more than 100 years, popularised in the USA with famous projects such as the Hoover Dam. How do hydropower plants work? Hydropower…
An introduction to renewables
If you’ve heard of solar but you’re unsure of the science, or you want to find out more about what makes technologies sustainable, we’ve put together some quick facts about the main renewables used in the UK. Using naturally- occurring fuel does…
What is solar glass?
What makes solar glass different from traditional panels? BIPV – building-integrated photovoltaics – are solar panels designed to replace conventional building materials in parts such as the roof, skylights, facades and windows. The key difference between this technology and traditional…
A guide to solar energy
Solar energy has been used for centuries, since glass lenses were first used to make fire by magnifying the sun’s rays in the ancient world. Radiant heat and light from the sun can be harnessed and converted into electricity, used…
Solar PV battery storage
Battery storage – the key to using your own electricity 24/7 We’ve been writing about solar PV since it was a fairly new technology. While many early adopters were passionate about getting involved with this innovative and exciting technology, they did so with an…
Why should I get a solar battery storage system at home?
Through panels on your roof, a solar PV system is a reliable way to harness free electricity. Radiant light and heat from the sun is converted into electricity, to be used for lighting, hot water and heating. The benefits are clear:…
Renewable energy: comparing Sweden with the UK
Scandinavian countries are leading the way for renewable energy generation and Sweden wants to become the first fossil fuel-free country in the world. A few years ago we looked at combined heat and power in the country. This time we are taking…
Support grows for Swansea Tidal Lagoon
Conservative MPs have overwhelmingly backed a new project planning to harness renewable energy from the sea. A ComRes poll has shown that 83% of Conservative MPs support the Swansea Bay tidal lagoon. This forms a marked contrast with recent measures…
Offshore wind energy may soon be cheaper than fossil fuels
11 leading offshore wind companies signed a document ahead of Monday’s EU Council meeting, stating that within a decade, offshore wind could generate electricity as cheaply as fossil fuels. However, it all relies on EU countries prioritising growth in the industry.…
Largest floating wind farm in the world to be built in Scotland
Soon, gas won’t be the only form of energy produced in the North Sea. Scotland is to be home to the largest floating wind farm in the world – Hywind – featuring five 6 megawatt turbines. Developers have been granted…