Renewable Energy – What is it?
Renewable energy refers to power derived from natural resources that are continuously replenished by the Earth’s natural processes.
These sources, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, and geothermal heat – are naturally occurring and limitless on a human timescale. Unlike fossil fuels, which take millions of years to form and are limited in supply, renewable energy sources are sustainable and can be used repeatedly without running out.
This makes them a vital solution for meeting today’s energy needs while protecting the environment for future generations.
We will speak about the five most common and different types of renewable energy in this article, which are:
Solar energy – generated from sunlight using solar panels.
Wind energy – captured using wind turbines.
Hydropower – created by the movement of water, usually in rivers or dams.
Biomass – produced from organic materials like plant waste or wood.
Geothermal energy – drawn from heat inside the Earth.
Solar Energy
Almost everyone has probably heard of solar energy, but what exactly is it and how does it work?
Humans have harnessed the power of the sun for thousands of years – using it to grow crops, warm homes, and dry food.
In modern times, we’ve taken this reliance on solar energy to new heights, developing advanced technologies that allow us to convert sunlight into electricity.
Today, solar power is being used to operate homes, businesses, vehicles, and even entire communities, playing a vital role in the global transition towards cleaner, more sustainable energy systems.
But is Solar Energy Worth it in the UK?
Despite its reputation for cloudy weather, the UK is an excellent location for solar energy.
Thanks to long daylight hours in spring and summer and improvements in solar technology, modern solar panels can generate electricity even on overcast days.
Solar energy provides a reliable, renewable power source that helps reduce electricity bills, lower carbon emissions, and decrease reliance on fossil fuels.
With government-backed schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), UK homeowners and businesses can even earn money by exporting excess energy back to the National Grid. Solar power is a practical and sustainable choice for meeting the UK’s growing demand for clean, low-carbon energy.
Here at Sunlite Group, we have both domestic and commercial solutions for Solar Energy.
There is a great article about monitoring your solar panel performance, which can be found here.
Pros of Solar Energy
-
✅ Abundant and Renewable
Solar energy is the most abundant power source on Earth. Even in the UK’s temperate climate, solar panels can generate electricity throughout the year—even on cloudy days.
✅ Clean and Environmentally Friendly
Solar panels produce green, clean energy with zero emissions during operation, helping reduce your carbon footprint and contributing to the UK’s net-zero targets.
✅ Lower Electricity Bills
By generating your own electricity, you can significantly reduce your energy costs. Businesses and households alike benefit from long-term savings.
✅ Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
UK users can earn money by exporting surplus electricity back to the National Grid under the Smart Export Guarantee scheme—improving return on investment.
✅ Low Maintenance and Long Lifespan
Solar panel systems have no moving parts, meaning they require very little maintenance and are unlikely to suffer from wear and tear. Most systems last 25 years or more.
✅ Energy Independence
Solar power reduces reliance on the National Grid and protects against rising energy prices—a valuable advantage for both homeowners and businesses.
✅ Scalable and Versatile
Solar systems can be installed at various scales: from rooftop residential panels to large commercial solar farms and warehouse arrays.
✅ Boosts Property Value
Homes and commercial buildings with solar installations may see an increase in market value and appeal due to lower running costs and improved energy efficiency.
✅ Technological Advancement
The solar industry continues to evolve, with improvements in battery storage, panel efficiency, and design making systems more powerful, reliable, and affordable.
Cons of Solar Energy
-
❌ High Initial Costs
While prices have fallen, the upfront cost of installation—including panels, inverters, and optional battery storage—can still be significant.
❌ Dependent on Sunlight
Solar output varies with time of day, weather, and season. UK winters and overcast days reduce efficiency, although panels still generate some power (typically 10–25%).
❌ Not All Roofs Are Suitable
The pitch, orientation, and shading of your roof can affect the performance of a solar PV system. A professional survey is often required to determine suitability. Get in contact with us today to talk about your options.
❌ Space Requirements
To generate substantial energy, especially for businesses, you’ll need adequate roof or ground space—something not all properties have.
❌ Energy Storage Adds Cost
To use solar power during the night or when the sun isn’t shining, a battery system is required. These add to the installation cost and require periodic replacement.
❌ Manufacturing and Disposal Impact
Although clean to use, the production and eventual disposal of solar panels involve energy use and resource extraction, which carry an environmental impact.
❌ May Not Suit Low-Energy Users
For homes or businesses with very low electricity usage, the cost of installation may outweigh the potential savings.
Wind Energy
What is it?
Wind energy, also known as wind power, is a clean, renewable form of electricity generated by harnessing the natural movement of air. Wind turbines – modern successors to old windmills – capture the kinetic energy of the wind and convert it into mechanical power, which is then transformed into electricity by a generator.
Once produced, this clean energy can be fed into the National Grid, helping to power homes, schools, businesses, and even entire communities.
The UK is one of the windiest countries in Europe, with long coastlines and open landscapes that make it ideal for both onshore and offshore wind farms. Thanks to this natural advantage, the UK has become a global leader in offshore wind, home to some of the largest and most advanced wind farms in the world.
Wind energy now supplies a growing share of the country’s electricity, playing a key role in reducing carbon emissions, cutting reliance on fossil fuels, and supporting the UK’s transition to net zero.
Can I have a wind turbine(s) at my home?
Wind farms are a common sight across the UK, but wind power isn’t just for the big players. Small-scale wind turbines can be installed on certain properties, generating clean electricity for individual homes or businesses.
However, not all buildings are suitable – factors like wind speed, location, and planning permission need to be considered.
A small domestic turbine might generate enough electricity to significantly reduce your energy bills, particularly in rural or exposed areas.
Typical Annual Electricity Usage:
The average UK household uses approximately 2,700 to 4,200 kWh of electricity per year, depending on household size and lifestyle.
- 1–2 people: ~2,700 kWh
- 3–4 people: ~3,600–4,200 kWh
- 5+ people or high-usage homes: 4,500 kWh+
These figures assume standard usage without electric heating or high-drain appliances like EV chargers or hot tubs. Homes using electric heating or with electric vehicles will use significantly more.
Here’s a breakdown of how much electricity a home wind turbine can generate in the UK, depending on its size, wind conditions, and installation type:
| Turbine Size | Type | Average Output per Year | What That Powers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | Roof-mounted | ~900–1,500 kWh | ~40% of a small home’s electricity |
| 2.5 kW | Freestanding/pole | ~3,000–4,000 kWh | Covers most of an average home’s needs |
| 5 kW | Freestanding/pole | ~7,500–9,000 kWh | Can power a large home or small business |
Important Considerations:
- Wind speed is critical – Output increases exponentially with higher wind speeds. Turbines work best in areas with average wind speeds over 5 m/s (11+ mph).
- Urban locations are usually unsuitable – Wind tends to be turbulent and less consistent in built-up areas.
- Freestanding turbines perform better – Roof-mounted turbines are cheaper but less efficient due to turbulence and limited height.
What is Hydropower?
Hydropower, or hydro energy, is one of the oldest and most reliable sources of renewable energy on the planet. In fact, people have been using the force of water to generate power for thousands of years — from ancient water wheels to today’s high-tech hydroelectric dams.
Just like wind power uses the movement of air, hydropower relies on the natural flow of water to create energy.
When fast-moving water is released through a dam, it spins turbines that generate electricity.
Most hydro systems include a reservoir to store water, a gate to control the flow, and a set of turbines that turn water movement into clean, renewable power. Simple in principle – powerful in practice.
Pros of Hydro Power
-
✅ Renewable and Clean
Hydropower generates electricity without burning fossil fuels, producing no direct greenhouse gas emissions during operation.
✅ Highly Efficient
Converts over 90% of water’s kinetic energy into electricity, making it one of the most efficient energy sources available.
✅ Low Operating Costs
After installation, maintenance and running costs are relatively low compared to other generation methods.
✅ Long Lifespan
Hydropower plants can last 50–100 years, offering excellent long-term value and stability
✅ Reliable and Consistent
Provides a stable energy supply and can operate continuously, unlike wind or solar which are weather-dependent.
✅ Quick to Adjust to Demand
Can ramp power up or down rapidly to match electricity demand — useful for grid stability.
✅ Energy Storage Capability
Pumped storage systems can store surplus electricity and release it when needed, supporting renewables like wind and solar.
Cons of Hydro Power
❌ High Upfront Costs
Building dams, reservoirs, and associated infrastructure requires significant investment.
❌ Environmental Impact
Large hydro projects can disrupt ecosystems, fish migration, and natural river flow.
❌ Not Scalable Everywhere
In the UK, suitable locations are limited and most large-scale opportunities have already been developed.
❌ Risk of Drought or Low Rainfall
Prolonged dry periods can reduce water availability and output.
❌ Potential for Displacement or Land Use Conflicts
Large reservoirs can affect communities and natural habitats, especially in regions where land is limited.
❌ Comparative Limitation in the UK
While hydropower dominates in countries like Norway or Canada, wind and solar are more cost-effective and scalable in the UK.
What is Biomass energy?
Biomass energy is a form of renewable energy produced from organic materials such as wood, crops, food waste, and even animal manure. These materials, known as biomass feedstock, store energy from the sun, absorbed through photosynthesis.
When processed – either by burning, digesting, or refining—they release that stored energy to produce heat, electricity, or fuels like biogas and bioethanol. The most common method is direct combustion, where biomass is burned to heat water or buildings directly, or to produce steam that drives a turbine to generate electricity.
Heard a few unfamiliar terms? Let’s break them down.
Biomass energy comes with its own mini-dictionary – things like biogas, bioethanol, and biodiesel. Sound technical? Don’t worry, here’s what they really mean:
Biogas – A mixture of methane and carbon dioxide produced when organic waste (like food or manure) breaks down in the absence of oxygen. It can be used for heating, electricity, or even as vehicle fuel.
Bioethanol – An alcohol made by fermenting the sugars in crops like maize or sugarcane. It’s often blended with petrol to reduce emissions from cars.
Biodiesel – A renewable fuel made from vegetable oils, animal fats, or used cooking oil. It can be used in diesel engines, either on its own or mixed with regular diesel.
Pros of Biomass Energy
✅ Renewable (When Sourced Sustainably)
Biomass comes from organic materials that can be regrown or replenished, such as crops, wood, and waste products.
✅ Reduces Waste
Biomass energy can repurpose agricultural, food, and forestry waste, helping divert materials from landfill and reducing methane emissions.
✅ Carbon-Neutral Potential
The CO₂ released when biomass is burned can be offset by the CO₂ absorbed by plants during their growth—if sourced and managed responsibly.
✅ Versatile Energy Output
Biomass can be used to generate electricity, produce heat, or create fuels like biogas, bioethanol, and biodiesel.
✅ Supports Energy Security
Local sourcing of biomass reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels and improves energy resilience.
✅ Job Creation in Rural Areas
Biomass production and processing can create jobs in agriculture, forestry, and waste management, especially in remote communities.
Cons of Biomass Energy
❌ Not Always Carbon Neutral in Practice
If biomass is harvested unsustainably or transported over long distances, it can result in significant carbon emissions—sometimes rivaling fossil fuels.
❌ Air Pollution
Burning biomass releases particulates and pollutants, which can contribute to local air quality issues if not properly managed.
❌ Land Use and Deforestation Risks
Growing crops for energy can compete with food production or lead to habitat loss if forests are cleared.
❌ Lower Efficiency
Biomass generally produces less energy per unit compared to fossil fuels or other renewables like wind and solar.
❌ High Storage and Transport Costs
Biomass materials are bulky, often wet, and can degrade over time, making them harder to store and transport efficiently.
❌ Debates Over Sustainability
Large-scale biomass use—such as imported wood pellets for power stations—has raised environmental concerns, especially in the UK and EU.
What is Geothermal energy?
Geothermal energy is a form of renewable energy that comes from the natural heat stored beneath the Earth’s surface. This heat is generated by the decay of radioactive materials and the residual heat from the planet’s formation. Geothermal energy can be harnessed to produce electricity, provide heating for buildings, or support industrial processes.
While the UK doesn’t have the volcanic activity of countries like Iceland or New Zealand, it does have low-temperature geothermal potential – particularly in areas like Cornwall, Bristol, and parts of Scotland. Projects here typically focus on geothermal heating rather than electricity generation, such as using ground-source heat pumps for homes, schools, and public buildings.
But how does it work?
This image helps visualise how Geothermal energy is extracted and processed – This is a Geothermal power plant.
How Geothermal Energy Works:
Heat from underground – Hot rocks and fluids beneath the Earth’s surface produce thermal energy.
Wells or boreholes are drilled to access this heat, either as steam or hot water.
The heat is used to:
Drive turbines to generate electricity, or
Circulate through heat exchangers to warm buildings directly.
Pros of Geothermal Energy
✅ Renewable and Sustainable
Geothermal energy relies on natural heat from within the Earth, which is virtually inexhaustible on a human timescale.
✅ Low Emissions
Geothermal systems produce very little greenhouse gas, making them one of the cleanest energy sources available.
✅ Reliable and Constant Supply
Unlike solar or wind, geothermal energy is available 24/7, regardless of weather or season.
✅ Small Land Footprint
Geothermal plants and heat systems take up less surface area than solar farms or wind turbines.
✅ Versatile Applications
Can be used for electricity generation, heating and cooling buildings, and industrial processes.
✅ Efficient for Heating
Ground-source heat pumps are highly efficient for domestic heating and are increasingly used in homes and public buildings.
✅ Long Lifespan and Low Operating Costs
Once installed, geothermal systems require minimal maintenance and can operate for decades.
Cons of Geothermal Energy
❌ High Upfront Costs
Drilling deep wells and installing systems is capital-intensive, especially for electricity generation.
❌ Location Dependent
High-temperature geothermal resources are limited to specific areas (e.g. volcanic or tectonically active regions). The UK has mostly low-temperature potential, suitable for heating rather than electricity.
❌ Slow Return on Investment
While running costs are low, the initial investment may take many years to recover.
❌ Environmental Concerns
Deep drilling can trigger minor seismic activity and may release trace gases from underground.
❌ Not Suitable for All Properties
Domestic ground-source systems require sufficient land area and suitable ground conditions.
❌ Long Development Time
Surveying, drilling, and approval processes can delay project completion, especially for large-scale plants.
We’ve covered five key types of renewable energy – solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and geothermal – each with their own strengths and challenges. Solar and wind are the most scalable in the UK, with strong government support and increasing adoption. Hydropower is efficient but limited by geography. Biomass and sewage-based systems offer flexible, waste-reducing options, while geothermal shows potential for heating in specific regions.
Together, they form the foundation of a cleaner, lower-carbon energy future. If you’d like to enquire about these services or discuss how renewable energy could benefit your home or business, get in touch with our team today.
Need a hand with Solar Repairs or Maintenance?
If you’ve spotted an issue or just want peace of mind, our expert team is here to help. We offer professional solar panel repair and maintenance services to keep your system running at peak performance. Get in touch today to schedule an inspection or learn more about how we can support your solar energy needs.
Send us a message
