Renewable energies include solar (the sun), wind, water (also known as hydro) and geothermal (which captures natural underground heat). Renewable energy also includes a number of biofuels made from biomass. Biomass is material derived from living or recently living things; most commonly wood but it also includes animal waste/ methane. Ethanol is another biofuel which is made by fermenting sugarcane or corn. In addition, hydrogen gas and alcohol fuels are also biofuels.

There are a number of renewable energy systems and technologies suitable for homes and small businesses. Usually these supplement a traditional heating system.

Domestic solar power is usually gathered by on-roof solar panels (often known as Photovoltaic PV units). Small scale wind turbines can also easily be installed. Planning permission may be required.

Domestic biomass energy is usually made when a biomass boiler burns wood or wood pellets. A wide range of boilers are available.

If you have a large garden or an area of land to utilise, Ground Source Heat Pumps can be installed. This involves having looped pipes buried one to two meters down. Air Source Heat Pumps which capture natural outside air temperatures and transfers them into energy are also available.

Small scale hydro turbines are also available but these are suited to homes or businesses with a fast running stream or river on their land. Planning permission and a license may be required.