ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to assess the energy and CO2e savings that renewable and low carbon energy systems can make in individual buildings and highlights the key issues to consider when analysing and selecting appropriate systems. There are many motivations to install renewable energy systems on, or in, buildings including: obtaining planning approval, scoring points in rating tools, increasing security/diversity of energy supply, publically displaying corporate environmental commitment, and getting a financial investment return, particularly if there are government incentives available. In comparison, any surplus electricity generated on site can usually be exported into the national grid and so doesn’t go to waste. Renewable electricity systems can therefore be sized to suit available space and budget whereas renewable heating systems are usually sized to suit the building’s heat demand. Renewable systems use a source of energy that can be replenished at the same rate that it is used.
