Many of us like the thought of converting our homes into 'green' houses, but unfortunately few of us do anything thing about it. We have the perception that it will be a hassle or too expensive and while we like to think that we lead very green lives, it is far from the truth.
In fact many green options need not be that expensive and they are in fact easier to install, either on your own with the help of experts than you might think.
solar pv heating is one example where the initial cost is recouped either partially or wholly, by the energy that it provides. Heating that pays for itself? An accredited supplier and installer will fit the solar panels for you, so there is minimal fuss.
Not only are your electricity bills substantially reduced as a result, but you can actually export electricity back to the national grid under the new Feed-in-Tariffs. The great thing is about the new government scheme is that you are guaranteed a price for electric you produce, even if you use all of it!
Another area where green is cheaper is recycling. We all like to think that we do our little bit to recycle but they are on the whole paltry efforts. If we could embrace this more whole heartedly and extend to buying second hand instead of new we would save the planet – and ourselves money.