Everyone has heard the term ‘Net Zero’ in the media, but what does it mean? At SolarTherm UK we believe everyone has a role to play in building a sustainable future. This article will break down what Net Zero is, why it matters and how solar energy can help in the fight for a more sustainable future.
What is Net Zero?
Net Zero is the balance between the amount of greenhouse gas emissions like CO₂ emitted and the amount removed or offset. Net Zero is reached when a country, business or household emits no more carbon than it removes. Net Zero doesn’t mean producing zero emissions, it means reducing emissions as much as possible and offsetting the remaining emissions through carbon capture, planting more trees or investing in green energy.
The UK’s Net Zero Goal
In 2019, the UK government set precedent, legally committing to reaching Net Zero by 2050. They set out plans to phase out fossil fuels and transition to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and hydro power. The government further set out their Net Zero plans by aiming to stop the production and sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles from 2030 and investing in electric vehicles and charging points across the UK.
The UK also brought in grants and subsidies to help UK households improve the energy efficiency by improving insulation and installing renewable energy sources such as solar panels and heat pumps. The most recent policy set out in the government’s plan is the Future Home Standard, which states all new properties need solar energy installed at construction stage.
How Solar Power Supports the Net Zero Mission
At SolarTherm UK we’re helping UK homeowners and businesses reduce their carbon footprint (and save money) one panel at a time. Solar panels produce electricity using the power of the sun – no fossil fuels, no CO₂ emissions. The average UK home solar system can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 1 tonne a year. Producing your own electricity using solar panels also helps to decarbonise the national grid as you’re lowering the demand for energy from fossil fuel produced electricity.
Advances in technology across the green energy sector means your solar panels can now be used to heat your home and hot water and to charge an electric vehicle. Combining solar panels alongside a heat pump, underfloor heating and smart controls not only saves you money but improves your energy efficiency moving your home closer to Net Zero.
Can a Home be Net Zero?
By making a number of changes and upgrades to your property it is possible to be Net Zero. Installing a solar PV system and battery storage will help you generate and use your own electricity. Improving your homes efficiency through smart upgrades such as installing a heat pump and electric heating, while costly will reduce your carbon footprint. A simple change you can make to your property is increasing your insulation and checking your windows and doors are efficient (double or triple glazed).
At SolarTherm UK, we specialise in solar but we can help you design a system that works for your energy future. If you are looking to install other green technology in the future let us know as every solar PV system we design is different and designed for your property and energy goals.
Why Net Zero Matters
Climate change isn’t just something that future generations need to worry about, it’s something that is here and now – from volatile weather, rising sea levels and increasing air pollution. Net Zero is essential to limit global temperatures to save levels – no more than 2 degrees above pre-industrial times. By reaching Net Zero we’ll be protecting public health and preventing further damage to ecosystems and will be creating a sustainable energy future for everyone. It’s not just a government goal, it needs everyone’s efforts even at a personal level to create long-term benefits for the future of the planet.
Every home and business that installs solar panels, switches to low-carbon heating or uses energy more efficiently is helping the UK move close to its Net Zero 2050 target.
Ready to Take the First Step Toward Net Zero?
Whether you are looking to start your solar journey or upgrade your existing solar PV system with battery storage or EV charging, SolarTherm UK can help by designing a low-carbon home that works for your lifestyle and the planet – no hard-sell, just honest, expert advice.
