B&Q launches solar panels and wind turbines

While environmental issues are at the top of the media and political agenda, research shows that there is still a lack of awareness about how easy it is to take steps to reduce environmental degradation. The Energy Saving Trust has conducted extensive research in this area and found that most UK consumers (61 per cent) would take action if it was easier to identify what should be done at home. It also found that 93 per cent are in favour of tougher product regulations and more consumer incentives to purchase energy-efficient goods. The online survey was undertaken by You Gov on behalf of the Energy Saving Trust between 27 and 29 March. Questions were asked of a nationally representative sample of the UK population (2 000 adults in total).
Ian Cheshire, chief executive of B&Q, said: "B&Q is responding to a genuine consumer interest in environmental issues by helping everyone to see that taking a few simple steps can save both money and the environment at the same time. With high energy prices projected to continue rising, coupled with increasing mortgage payments, we predict that in future, consumers will increasingly look to energy efficiency for cost reductions. People are still unclear, however, about the benefits of using energy-efficient products, particularly in generating savings, so we've provided an accessible energy efficiency guide to help answer questions and provide helpful advice and information in stores, making it easier for them."
At the moment consumer buying habits are still dominated by short-term price considerations or misunderstandings about the benefits of using energy-efficient products.
Ian Cheshire continued: "Many of us are unaware that the average house is more environmentally damaging than the average car, or that there is a whole set of simple, easy solutions people can take to tackle climate change, which will also save them money."
Adrian Arnold, head of trade marketing, Energy Saving Trust, added: "An average UK household creates six tonnes of carbon dioxide a year. And it isn't just about damaging the environment – inefficient use of energy is costing the consumer money too. You can save cash on your electricity bills by getting a small wind turbine fitted to your house and you can also save up to 50 per cent of your hot water costs by installing solar water heating panels - saving consumers a small fortune off their energy bills."
The 'micro-wind turbines' are compact and suitable for installation on the roof of domestic homes and have been designed to deliver 230V electricity directly into the household wiring without the need for batteries or complex wiring. The solar water heating packages will be available to buy and take away immediately from larger B&Q stores, ready for installation by a recommended fitter. The solar panels cost from £ 1 498 and the wind turbines cost £ 1 498, with the cost of turbines including installation. Available in 107 of B&Q's larger stores and online at www.diy.com.