Energy and Retrofit explained
Energy consumption
Definition
Measuring the amount of energy used for services such as heating, cooling, lighting, and running appliances.
I want to know more
It can be very useful to understand your household’s current energy use (energy consumption) and the costs and carbon emissions associated.
Check energy statements to understand your current usage, and watch videos online for a further breakdown.
For longer term savings, smarter meters can be installed in the home to measure how much gas and electricity is being used. This exact data is then sent to your energy supplier, meaning you only pay for what you use instead of paying for estimated rates.
Recommended services
Energy Conservation
Definition
The practice of using services less to reduce energy consumption.
I want to know more
Being more efficient with the energy we use around the home reduces waste and protects the environment – and ultimately saves families money, too.
Energy conservation is one way of reducing overall energy consumption – it requires adjustments to existing household habits to reduce the use of energy.
Recommended services
Energy Efficiency
Definition
The practice of using less energy, but providing the same amount of heating, cooling, or lighting. Achieving the same with less.
I want to know more
Using LED light bulbs to make your room bright with less electricity is one example of being ‘smarter’ with energy, and more efficient.
Saving energy means lower energy bills, less carbon emissions released into the atmosphere (which damages the planet), and if done efficiently it still maintains the same comfort in the home.
Recommended services
EPC
Definition
EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate - a rating given to a building or appliance to indicate how energy efficient it is.
I want to know more
An EPC rating is much like a school exam grade for a building's energy efficiency. It shows how good or bad a building is at using energy for things like heating, lighting, and cooling. The rating is usually given as a letter (A, B, C, etc.), with A being the best and G being the worst.
Being aware of how an EPC can affect home energy usage is important. You can see your EPC rating on the EPC register to understand what actions can improve your home efficiency.
Recommended services
Retrofit
Definition
Retrofit is the process of making property and building improvements to make them more energy efficient, or using less energy to warm, coo,l or light them.
I want to know more
It's when you make changes to an older building to make it more energy-efficient, like adding insulation or better windows.
Some common retrofit measures include installation of:
- Insulation: Well insulated walls, roofs, and lofts help prevent heat loss in winter and keeps your home cooler in summer, reducing energy consumption.
- Upgrading windows and doors: Replacing old windows and doors with more energy-efficient ones can help regulate a home's temperature and prevent drafts.
- Renewable energy sources: Solar panels or a heat pump can provide homes with clean, renewable energy.
- Ventilation and air filtration: Improved ventilation and air filtration systems can help improve indoor air quality and respiratory health.
There are many benefits to domestic (household) retrofit – not just for you and your wallet, but also the planet.
- Lower energy bills – the more energy efficient your home is, the less energy it needs to stay warm in winter and cool in summer
- Healthier homes - well-retrofitted homes have better ventilation and air filtration, which can reduce allergy triggers, improve respiratory health, and create a more comfortable living environment.
- Lower carbon emissions: energy-efficient homes emit less carbon emissions, which lower a household’s carbon footprint and protect the environment from caron emissions.
Recommended services
