Key renewable energy technologies explained

Fossil fuels have provided a significant amount of energy for our society since the Industrial Revolution. However, with the UK aiming to reach Net Zero by 2050, a transition towards renewable energy technologies is crucial. Progress has already been made, and 2020 marked the first year in the UK’s history that electricity was predominantly powered by renewable energy, with 43% generated by sources like wind, solar and bioenergy. 

Renewable heat sources are another key element in the path towards Net Zero, especially as over half the money spent on domestic fuel goes towards heating and hot water, according to the Energy Saving Trust.  Commercial buildings benefit from a move towards renewable energy too, with incentives like lower operating costs, adhering to regulatory requirements and a desire to stand out from the competition. 

At The Highbourne Group, we’re committed to embracing new technologies and lowering our emissions as part of the overall strategy to reach Net Zero. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the key renewable energy technologies in more detail and how they work to power sustainable heating systems. 

There are two main types of heat pump systems – air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps. Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) work by capturing heat from the air using a refrigeration cycle. Air is absorbed at low temperatures over a glycol mixture; this fluid is then passed through a compressor, raising its temperature.

This heat is then transferred to a building’s heating and hot water circuits to provide heat through radiators or underfloor heating. Air-to-air systems can also produce warm or cool air to be distributed to rooms via internal fans. 

Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) are similar to ASHPs, except they capture heat from the ground using underground pipe arrays or boreholes. Heat is absorbed from the ground into glycol fluid in a collector array before being passed through a heat exchanger and transferred to the same elements of a building used by ASHPs. GSHPs can be up to 400% more efficient due to the consistent temperature under the surface of the ground. However, heat pump installation is more costly and labour-intensive compared to ASHPs. 

These renewable heat sources have many benefits, including low running costs, no fuel storage requirements, and a reduced carbon footprint for buildings. 

Many sustainable heating systems involve the use of multiple renewable energy technologies, and underfloor heating can be particularly effective when combined with a heat pump. Both ASHP and GSHP systems are suitable for use with underfloor heating, which is often more environmentally friendly and cost-effective compared to traditional heating systems. 

There are two main types of underfloor heating – electric and water. Electric systems generate heat via cabling or mats connected to mains electricity, while water systems pump water from a heat source to the underfloor system via plastic pipes. Both systems are effective at distributing heat evenly around the room and eliminate the need for radiators or visible pipes, creating more space. 

Here at Highbourne Group, we’re committed to putting the planet first. Supporting the race to Net Zero has led to a series of initiatives at the heart of our business, including an annual reduction in emissions and embracing new renewable energy technologies and products wherever possible. 

Thinking about transitioning to renewable energy solutions? As a business, we have considerable knowledge and expertise when it comes to renewable energy technologies, so we are perfectly placed to support our customers as they take steps towards Net Zero. Click here to learn more about our environmental policies, or don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team today.