The Green Alliance has said that microgeneration products that allow people to harness energy from local renewable energy sources are within the reach of everyday consumers.

Senior policy advisor Tracy Carty said that many DIY retailers are responding to a surge in demand for onsite equipment such as solar panels and wind turbines.

"We are seeing a shift and move towards shops like B&Q selling them, so it will mean that it is something the average householder can consider."

When used in conjunction with energy-conserving technologies such as double glazing, microgeneration devices can make a private dwelling 'zero-carbon' - completely eradicating any negative impact the property has on the environment.

Ms Carty noted, however, that "it's still early days" for in-home sustainable energy generation; therefore, until prices come down, many homeowners will opt instead to focus on increasing the efficiency of their property's insulation.

The government recently outlined plans to make all new homes zero-carbon by 2016 - responding to official figures that show 27 per cent of the UK's greenhouse gas emissions currently come from private dwellings.

© Adfero Ltd

Author:  Joanne McCabe

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