Pictured above: Peter Searancke, managing director, Intelligent Energy Solutions

A £15m scheme to enable householders to opt for eco alternatives to heat their homes has been given the go ahead by the Government. According to one of the East Midlands leading energy experts, Peter Searancke, this means there has never been a better time to look at making the switch.  

The Renewable Heat Premium Payment, the precursor to the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), will run from 1st August 2011 - 31st March 2012 and is designed to make renewable energy technologies, including solar thermal panels, heat pumps and biomass boilers, more affordable. Homeowners living in England, Scotland and Wales who do not currently use gas to heat their homes, will be eligible to apply for up to £1250 towards the installation cost. Homeowners who do use mains gas will be eligible for a £300 payment towards solar water heating panels, meaning many households are set to benefit from a dramatic reduction in energy bills.

Peter, owner and founder of Intelligent Energy Solutions, with offices in Loughborough, Gloucester and Leeds, says his company is already experiencing significant increases in the number of people looking to opt for solar thermal panels and heat pumps. This new incentive from the Government will be welcomed, particularly with the increasing cost of oil and the recent announcements of gas and electricity price hikes.

He said: "The Renewable Heat Premium will undoubtedly help countless homeowners make the switch to renewables and, in the current times of austerity, this £15m commitment from the Government really demonstrates that renewables are the way forward. 

"Anyone interested in finding out more about the grant and how they can benefit can visit www.decc.gov.uk or telephone 0800 779 7710 to speak to one of our advisors who would be happy to help."