Energy generation to-do list

Installing a renewable technology might seem like a challenge, but it's really no more complicated than any other home improvement.

Just follow these simple steps, from initial research to learning to operate your new energy system.

• Getting started
• Narrowing it down
• Electricity or heating?
• Made your decision?
• After the installation

Getting started

Find out about your options for generating energy at home:

• Read about the different ways to generate your own energy on our renewable technologies pages
• See which technologies might suit your home with our energy selector tool
• Talk to people you know who have installed renewable technologies.

Narrowing it down

You'll need to decide:

• which technology to use
• what size system to install
• which installer and products to use
• how to pay for the installation

Here's what to do to help you choose:

• See what products are available - research local suppliers and installers online and give them a call to find out more.

• Check that the suppliers are certified - either with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (for all UK microgeneration products and installers) or the Solar Keymark (Solar thermal products and installers across Europe).

• Look into funding and financing for the options that interest you - search for grants and offers

• Check whether you need planning permission - find your local authority

• Get recommendations and quotes - arrange for a few potential installers to visit your home and tell you what they can offer and how much it will cost.

Electricity or heating?

Depending on which you choose, there are other things to thing about:

• Electricity: is your home connected to the National Grid? If so, think about selling your own energy. If not, you'll need to research the best way to store electricity.

• Heating: is your current heating system compatible with the installation? Could you be more efficient with another type of system, such as under floor heating? Get opinions from a range of certified installers.

Made your decision?

The final details to nail down before you go ahead:

• Make your home energy efficient by installing insulation, double glazing and draught-proofing - this will ensure you get the most out of your renewable technology.

• Apply for planning permission if you need it - find your local authority

• Make sure you have warranties on your products and installation - it will add to your peace of mind and could cut your future costs. To find out more, talk to your installer.

• Find secondary contractors for bore holes, scaffolding etc to get your project off the ground.

After your installation

Don't forget...

• Check with your home insurance provider to make sure your policy covers the changes to your home, and make any adjustments you need.

• Learn how to use your new system - ask your installer to arrange a training or advice session.