The idea of transitioning your power source to renewable energy may be scary for some, as we've relied on fossil fuels for so long---why not stick with what we know? Upfront capital costs of renewable energy sources such as heat pumps and solar panels may also be daunting, and you may be wondering if this will benefit you in the long run.
At Project Heating Solutions (PHS), we like to think of renewable energy as exciting---a new generation of power for the world, which will reduce global emissions and improve the global economy.
In this blog, we'll analyse the costs of fossil fuels and renewable energy, touching on upfront and long-term costs of renewable electricity, the increasing demand for energy at a lower cost, and how renewables will become the cheapest source of power in the near future.
Learn more about the environmental benefits of solar, their impact, and why renewable energy is the future.
The Growing Cost of Finite Fossil Fuels
The cost of fossil fuels is affected by fuel prices, which have increased due to the current gas shortage. The price of electricity from fossil fuels and nuclear power has changed over the last decade, with coal being the biggest source, supplying 37% of electricity.
The cost of fossil fuels is expected to continue to rise, making renewable energy a more attractive option. Many homeowners, landlords, and business owners are opting for a new energy system made up of renewable technologies such as heat pumps and solar panels as energy prices soar.
While developing cost effective renewable power is important progress, it's also important for the world that air pollution decreases.
See how your electricity bills can benefit from solar panels and a battery system from PHS. Our range of solar technologies are priced including full installation, with no hidden costs (also includes the cost of scaffolding).
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The Rise & Rise of Renewable Energy
Renewable energy capacity has hit all-time highs in Europe, and a new report finds that in the next decade, solar and wind power, along with other sources, will make up 80% of the UK's energy sources.
According to the UK's energy strategy, the country aims to significantly increase its renewable energy capacity by 2030. This expansion is expected to result in wind and solar energy contributing over 65% of the UK's electricity supply by 2030.
In 2023, new capacity additions for global renewables increased by nearly 510 gigawatts (GW), the fastest growth rate in 20 years. Solar PV accounted for three-quarters of the new capacity, and wind capacity additions also increased significantly.
Solar PV alone accounted for three-quarters of renewable capacity additions worldwide in 2023, and renewable energy is expected to get even more affordable, with technology advancements and improvements driving down costs.
Comparing Costs: Fossil Fuels vs Renewable Energy
Renewable energy is cheaper than new and existing fossil fuel plants, with 96% of newly installed, utility-scale solar PV and onshore wind capacity having lower generation costs than new coal and natural gas.
The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of wind turbines and solar PV panels has fallen significantly over time. The cost of new conventional gas-fired generation (without carbon capture) rose in 2023.
Learn more about the environmental benefits of solar, their impact, and why renewable energy is the future.
The Benefits of Combining Solar Panels & Air Source Heat Pumps
Reduces Your Energy Usage
By integrating air source heat pumps with solar panels, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption.
Air source heat pumps are already highly efficient, capable of delivering three to four times more heat energy than the electricity they consume.
However, by powering these heat pumps with solar-generated electricity, the reliance on the grid is further minimised. This combination allows homeowners to tap into renewable energy sources, which reduces dependence on traditional fossil fuel-based energy
Saves You Money On Energy Bills
One of the primary benefits of combining air source heat pumps and solar panels is the money you’ll save. By utilising the sun’s unlimited energy to power the heat pump, homeowners can reduce their reliance on grid electricity, resulting in lower energy bills.
Additionally, many governments and energy companies offer incentives and rebates for installing renewable energy systems which includes both solar panels and heat pumps, which helps reduce the upfront costs.
The Impact of Renewable Energy on Electricity Prices
The cost of renewable energy has declined rapidly, making it competitive with fossil fuels and leading to lower electricity prices.
The price of electricity from renewable sources, including solar and wind energy, has declined over the last decade.
The UK has already reduced its territorial greenhouse gas emissions, with nearly half of its electricity generation now coming from renewables.
This not only helps the environment, but lowers the average price of power for the average person.
The Benefits of Renewable Energy: Cost Effective While Tackling Climate Change
Renewable energy sources do not require fuel to run, making them a more attractive option for consumers who seek to produce a lower carbon price and lower fuel costs.
The competition among renewable energy providers has driven down costs, with government grants and incentives also helping to reduce costs, providing consumers with lower energy prices and energy security.
Renewable energy is expected to play a critical role in addressing today’s energy and climate crises by accelerating the transition to net-zero emissions.
The Role of Policy and Investment
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reports that renewable power added in 2022 reduced the fuel bill of the electricity sector worldwide, saving at least $520 billion.
Delivering a fully decarbonised electricity system will require significant investment in the network to connect electricity users to the most cost-effective sources of low-carbon power.
The UK government expects offshore wind to become cheaper than onshore wind by the mid-2030s.
Renewable Power: Powering The Future At A Lower Cost
Renewable energy is becoming increasingly cost-competitive with fossil fuels, making it a more attractive option for consumers and policymakers.
The benefits of renewable energy, including lower operating costs and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, make it a critical component of a sustainable energy future.
Continued investment and policy support are needed to drive the transition to a renewable energy-dominated electricity system.
Learn more about the environmental benefits of solar, their impact, and why renewable energy is the future.
