This content applies to Scotland only.

Housing laws vary between Scotland and England. Get advice relating to England

This page sets out the benefits of using renewable energy sources, and explains more about generating your own power at home.

What are renewable energy sources?

At present, most of the energy we use to heat and light our homes and run electrical appliances comes from 'non-renewable' resources: gas, coal and oil. In addition to using oil and gas for heating and cooking, most of the electricity we use comes from burning gas and coal in power stations.

Gas, coal and oil are all fossil fuels. Burning them to create energy gives off carbon dioxide, which contributes to climate change. This is often referred to as the 'greenhouse effect'. In addition, because fossil fuels take millions of years to develop, they can't be renewed, and they're starting to run low.

Renewable energy comes from natural sources that don't run out, such as the sun, wind and flowing water, or from replaceable sources such as plants and trees (known as 'biomass'). Although biomass fuels still need to be burnt to generate energy, the carbon dioxide they give off is balanced out by the carbon dioxide the plants and trees absorb while they're growing. Overall, burning biomass fuel doesn't increase the amount of carbon dioxide in the air, so it's described as 'carbon neutral'.

What are the advantages of using renewable energy sources?

It's good to use renewable energy sources because:

• it reduces our dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels, which may eventually run out
• it helps reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other so called greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change
• it helps keep the air clean.

In addition, if you decide to install equipment to generate your own electricity, you will probably save yourself money by reducing your fuel bills or even doing away with them altogether.

How can I use renewable energy sources?

There are many ways you can use renewable energy. For example, whenever you hang your washing outside to dry, you're making use of wind and solar power. Many electricity companies also offer a 'green' tariff. This gives you the option to buy electricity that comes from natural or carbon neutral sources. To find out more, visit Green Electricity.

How can I generate my own power for my home?

It's also possible to install special equipment in your home to generate your own power to keep your home warm, heat water and run electrical appliances. The various different products that do this are known as 'microgeneration technologies', because they generate power on a small scale.

What are microgeneration technologies?

Microgeneration technologies generate electricity or heating from natural, renewable sources such as the wind and sun, or use replaceable biomass fuels such as wood and plants, instead of non-renewable fossil fuels such as gas, oil and coal. Examples include wind turbines, solar panels and wood-fuelled heating systems.

How do I decide which technology is for me?

This will depend on where you live, what kind of home you own and how much you can afford to pay. Some forms of microgeneration technology are not suitable for all properties.

Visit the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) Low carbon buildings grants website and the Energy Saving Trust website to find out more about:

• how microgeneration technologies work
• which technologies might suit you
• how to go about getting them installed
• where you can get further advice.

Find out more about making your home more energy efficient.

Will I need planning permission?

If you're installing solar panels or other solar thermal equipment, you may not need planning permission. However, it's always best to check with the council before starting work.  If you are installing a free standing wind turbine or an air source heat pump, there are some planning restrictions. You can find more information from your local council or from Planning Aid for Scotland.

Find out more about planning permission.