The Green Deal
Is the new government scheme designed to aid energy efficiency improvements whilst building owners avoid paying large upfront costs.

The Green Deal will cover an array of measures, including all of the items listed above.

The process begins with a no-obligation assessment, carried out by a registered Assessor, who will then pass on their recommendations to a Green Deal Provider of your choice.

Visit the SGD HQ for more information.

Tips and Technologies

Heating System
An old inefficient boiler could account for over 20% of your heating costs - consider replacing!
Fit thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) to your radiators, and install thermostats and weather compensation controls.
Fit an efficient wood stove instead of an open fire. Underfloor heating runs much cooler & saves wall space.

Chimneys
Block open fireplaces when not in use, with balloons or baffles - but remember to ventilate long-term.

Windows
Use heavy curtains in the winter, or shutters.
DIY draftproof, or have your sashes overhauled. Consider secondary glazing or new double glazing - timber frames are more attractive, easily serviceable, much more eco, and will last longer than uPVC.

Insulation
It's not sexy but it could save you a fortune!
Make sure the loft has at least 200mm of insulation. Consider internal or external solid wall insulation. Insulate the ground floor if possible, certainly attic ceilings.

Seasonality
Let the winter sun in, but keep the summer sun out!

Electricity
Make sure your fridge and freezer are well sealed. Buy AAA appliances. Don't leave things on standby. Change all lightbulbs to CFLs, or better still LEDs.

Renewables
Solar thermal will provide up to 60% of your hot water - 100% in the summer! It remains the most economical renewable energy - free energy from the sun! Solar PV (Photovoltaics) will pay you to provide electricity!

Grow Food & Compost!
Even if you're short of space, there's loads of tasty things that you can grow in pots.. So much energy is wasted on moving our waste food about - compost it and use it on your own veggies at home!