The benefits of energy efficiency in your home

Global and national context

Climate change is a significant issue that impacts us all. By the end of the century, it is estimated that climate change will cost the UK economy more than what the government currently spends on defence, policing, transport, and overseas aid combined. Our dependency on foreign energy is substantial, with the UK importing nearly £50 billion worth of energy annually, which rose to £117 billion in 2022.

Direct energy savings

One of the most obvious benefits of making your home energy-efficient is the direct savings on energy costs. For instance, installing a small solar system and battery can generate savings of around £16,000 over its lifetime, at an initial cost of about £8,000. Additionally, energy-efficient properties can benefit from mortgage lender incentives, potentially saving homeowners nearly £3,000.

Increased property value

Energy efficiency can also increase your property’s value. According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), energy-efficient homes can see an increase in value by up to 15%, a phenomenon known as the “green premium.” Conversely, properties that are less energy-efficient may face a discount in the future as green standards become the norm. For example, two identical properties on sale last year showed that the one with solar panels was priced higher, indicating market recognition of energy-efficient improvements.

Landlords can also reap benefits from energy-efficient properties, including limited tax relief and compliance with minimum energy efficiency standards, which may become stricter in the future. This compliance ensures that properties remain legally rentable and attractive to potential tenants.

Health and wellbeing

One of the less considered but equally important benefits of energy efficiency is its impact on health and well-being. Energy-efficient homes offer better thermal comfort and indoor air quality, reducing exposure to changing energy prices, heatwaves, and cold snaps. Poor indoor air quality, caused by issues like mould and dust mites, can lead to respiratory diseases, heart disease, cognitive deficits, and even cancer. Smart home technology can help monitor and maintain a healthy indoor environment, pre- and post-retrofit.

Recent global events, such as the Ukraine war and attacks in the Red Sea, have highlighted the volatility of energy markets. By investing in energy-efficient measures like solar panels and batteries, homeowners can achieve long-term price stability and reduce their dependence on fluctuating energy prices.

How Propflo can help

Propflo has developed a tool called GreenVal, which provides a comprehensive report on your property’s energy efficiency, including health and well-being benefits. This tool helps homeowners compare improvements, see the financial returns, and get quotes from trusted suppliers. Partners like Action Net Zero, Yopa, Habito, Molo, and Hodge offer this tool.

Currently, we are involved in a project that offers discounts on improvements such as £700 off solar panels, £700 off a heat pump, up to £1,000 of free smart home technology, and a free EPC. If you are interested, please reach out via contact@propflo.co.uk or get a quote from one of our partners.