How air source heat pumps and solar panels help to meet the Future Home Standards

As the world moves towards a greener future, embracing energy-efficient and sustainable technology in our homes is becoming more prominent. The combined use of heat pumps and solar panels in homes in the UK is increasing and is setting homeowners on the right track to meet the Future Home Standards in the UK.

Heat pumps and solar panels

Heat pumps and solar panels complement each other perfectly in providing renewable energy for your home. Heat pumps extract heat from the air or ground and transfer it inside your home, offering a cost-effective and energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating systems. Solar panels, harness the power of sunlight and convert it into electricity that can be used to power various appliances, including heat pump systems. 

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels, often referred to as photovoltaic (PV) panels, are devices that convert sunlight into electricity. They are a central component of solar power systems, which harness the sun's energy to generate clean, renewable electricity.
Solar panels are designed with an array of solar cells, made up of semiconducting materials such as silicon. When sunlight hits these cells, it excites the electrons within them, generating a flow of electricity. This process, known as the photovoltaic effect, is the fundamental principle behind solar panel operation.

The solar cells are encased in protective glass, which acts as a cover to shield against weather elements. Underneath the glass, a layer of anti-reflective coatings helps to increase light absorption. The cells are interconnected by metal conductors, allowing the electric current to flow efficiently.

Solar panels have revolutionised the way we generate electricity by harnessing the power of sunlight and are a popular choice for homeowners.

How does an air source heat pump work?

With the increasing focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, air source heat pumps have gained attention as an efficient heating and hot water solution. 

An air source heat pump (ASHP) is a system that transfers heat between the outdoors and the interior of a building to provide space heating, domestic hot water, and even cooling in some cases. An air source heat pump uses refrigeration principles to extract heat from the outside air and convert it into usable energy for indoor climate control.

By efficiently converting ambient heat into usable energy, they provide a more sustainable alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems. As the technology advances and more buildings adopt air source heat pumps, we move closer to a more energy-efficient and environmentally conscious future.

Under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you can receive a £7,500 grant that contributes towards the cost of a heat pump.

Can renewable energy systems be combined?

Using heat pumps and solar panels in combination ensures maximum efficiency and minimises reliance on fossil fuels. Heat pumps have a high coefficient of performance (COP), meaning they produce more energy output than the electricity input required to run them. In fact, they can generate up to three times the energy consumed, making them a highly efficient heating solution.
Adding solar panels to the system helps to boost the sustainability of your home. The energy generated by solar panels can directly power the heat pump, reducing the electricity demand from the grid. During periods of excess solar energy production, the surplus can be stored in solar battery storage or redirected back to the grid. Renewable energy exported back to the grid will be paid for if you opt in for the Smart Export Guarantee. 

Benefits of renewable energy for your home

Incorporating heat pumps and solar panels into your home offers a multitude of benefits:

• Reduced carbon footprint: By utilising renewable energy sources, heat pumps and solar panels significantly reduce carbon emissions. This helps combat climate change and contributes to a greener future.
• Lower energy bills: Traditional heating systems heavily rely on fossil fuels, which can be expensive and subject to price fluctuations. Heat pumps and solar panels help you save money on energy bills, as the cost of electricity and solar power is comparatively lower and more stable in the long run.
• Robust and reliable: Heat pumps and solar panels are built to last. With minimal maintenance requirements, these systems provide consistent heating and power supply year-round, ensuring round-the-clock comfort and sustainability.
• Increased property value: Equipping your home with eco-friendly heating or energy systems can significantly increase its market value. High-performing homes with energy-efficient features are in high demand, making them a wise investment for the future.

Savings on bills in the UK

Opting for heat pumps and solar panels can lead to substantial savings on energy bills. With the government's ambitious Future Homes Standards, new residential properties will have to meet stringent energy efficiency requirements. By installing and retrofitting heat pumps and solar panels, homeowners can not only meet but exceed these standards, unlocking financial incentives including the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which is essentially a heat pump grant, homeowners receive an upfront grant of £7,500 off the installation of a heat pump. The Smart Export Guarantee, on the other hand, enables solar panel owners to earn money by exporting excess electricity generated back to the grid. These financial incentives act as an additional boost to offset the installation costs, making heat pumps and solar panels even more affordable and attractive for UK homeowners.

Should I invest in renewable energy?

In short, yes! 
Investing in heat pumps and solar panels is a smart move for homeowners seeking to meet the Future Homes Standards while maximising cost savings and reducing their environmental impact. An air source heat pump and solar panels not only work together seamlessly but also offer efficiency, numerous benefits for your home, and significant savings on energy bills. By harnessing the power of renewable energy, the UK can set itself on a sustainable path towards a greener future. If you’re looking to add renewable energy to your home, the energy-saving experts at All Seasons Energy have already helped 1000s of customers make the switch and they can help you too.

This article was written by Tom King. All Seasons Energy