Demonstrating how to cut bill
BUSINESS is hotting up for renewable energy installers in the Tees Valley, with more householders switching onto green power as utility bills continue to rise.
Last year the Energy Saving Trust (EST) in the North East dealt with 6,000 inquiries from householders wanting more information on green energy systems - 1,000 more than anticipated.
Solar panels, ground and air source heat pumps and wind turbines are all high on the list.
Darlington company Natural Warmth, winner of the environmental accolade at the recent Tees Valley Best New Business Awards, is seeing its order book fill up since trading started last year.
The company, which installs ground and air source heat pumps, has a demonstration at its Darlington showrooms to de-mystify the technology for both architects and individuals.
Managing director Steve Heslop, who started the business, claims while it’s expected to turn over £750,000 in its first year, his traditional oil and gas business RDS Heating is struggling.
“We installed a demo because it would have been disingenuous to heat our building any other way,” he said. “The conventional side of our business is suffering, like everyone, but the renewables side is going well.
“The payback time on heat pumps is job-specific but, if you are currently on oil, you can save up to 70% - and it also removes the uncertainty over the volatility of price changes.”
The EST took 6,000 inquiries between April 2007 and April 2008. Regional advice centre manager Alan Jones said research with an impartial source was essential for anyone wanting to install green energy.
“Renewable technologies offer an opportunity to reduce your carbon footprint,” he added.
“It’s encouraging to witness people in our region exploring the possibilities that these technologies offer.”
