Energy efficiency improvements

Solar panels

Solar panels (also called solar PV) turn daylight into electricity. They work automatically so you will not need to switch them on or off. They even produce electricity on cloudy days, but work best when it’s sunny.

The electricity they produce can power everyday items like your fridge, TV and washing machine. They need very little maintenance and we check them as part of your regular electrical safety visits.

To see if your system is working, look at the small digital solar PV generation meter. This is different to your electric meter. The numbers will increase when electricity is being produced.

Will I save money?

Solar panels can help lower your electricity bills, especially if you use appliances during the day. They won’t cover all your energy usage, but you’ll buy less from your supplier.

To get the most from your system, use large appliances one at a time and if possible, when the sun is shining, as this is when your panels generate the most power.

Savings from a solar panels will vary. The amount of energy generated depends on things like the weather, system size and how much electricity you use during the day.

While customers will see a reduction in their energy bills, we cannot guarantee any specific level of savings

Some of the electricity generated by your solar panels may be exported to the electricity grid when it isn’t being used in your home. There is no payment available to customers for this exported electricity.

As the owner of the property and the solar PV system, whg receives a small payment for this export. This helps us fund other works, including improvements to make homes more energy efficient.

You do not need to change your energy tariff to include an export element, unless you choose to switch to a different tariff that works better for you.

Loft insulation

Did you know up to 25% of your home’s heat can escape through an uninsulated roof? Loft insulation helps keep that heat in, reducing energy loss and lowering your heating bills.

How does loft insulation work?

Loft insulation is an extra layer of thick material that reduces heat loss through your roof.

It traps heat in, reducing the need to keep heating your home to compensate for warmth escaping into the loft or outside.

To keep your insulation effective and working properly:

• Avoid storing items in the loft
• Don’t move or flatten the insulation

Cavity wall insulation

About 33% of heat loss happens as heat escapes through the walls. Cavity wall insulation can help keep your home warmer in winter, and cooler in the summer.

How does cavity wall insulation work?

A cavity wall is made up of two layers with a gap in between known as a cavity.

Cavity wall insulation fills this gap to reduce the transfer of heat between your home and the outside. In winter, it stops heat escaping. In summer, it helps keep heat out.

This keeps your home more comfortable all year round and can help lower your energy bills.

You do not need to do any maintenance once your insulation is installed.

For more information, visit the Energy Saving Trust.

If you think there is a problem with your energy efficiency measures, please call us on 0300 555 6666.