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Lower hot water bills, being environmentally friendly and getting £400 to do it? Sounds good, doesn’t it? 60 residents in the New Forest area obviously think so, as they have successfully applied for a Government grant called Clear Skies, which contributes to the cost of a solar hot water system.
The good news is even if it’s not sunny outside, the system still works because it uses the infrared spectrum of the sun, which is present even on the dullest of days. This means lower fuel bills because less energy is used and this reduces the amount of climate change gases polluting the atmosphere.
The even better news is after the installation cost of about £2,500 – £3,500, hot water is free, cutting a large percentage off the fuel bill.
Cllr Michael Thierry said of the scheme: “This is a fantastic scheme and is a brilliant way of looking after our planet and helping to reduce harmful climate change gas emissions.”
So every time the hot water tap is turned on, the family benefit from free hot water – it’s not costing them a penny. The £400 grant is paid after the system has been installed.
However, the system must be installed by a Government accredited Clear Skies installer, otherwise the grant is not awarded. Residents need to be aware that some companies are offering to install the system but are not accredited installers so the £400 grant is not awarded to the customer.
If you do decide to have a solar hot water system installed it is advisable that you contact the Energy Advice Centre on 0800 512012 for free and impartial advice and they can also provide you with details of accredited installers. Information is also available at www.clear-skies.org. |
