ReEnergise is currently running a concerted campaign to raise awareness about renewable heat. For shameless attention grabbing in schools, the theme is Shakespearean and tongue in cheek. But the underlying rationale is perfectly serious. Here is the opening from Episode 5 just to give you a flavour.

Oh Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?

Down here.

Oh Romeo…

Yes, my love? (Sigh)

My Father says we can’t see each other anymore.

What?! But…

He says nothing good will come of it.

It’s now Government’s policy to phase out the installation of high carbon forms of fossil fuel heating in new and existing businesses off the gas grid during the 2020s. Might seem a long way off, but it’s already relevant if you’re on oil and need to replace a boiler. Just consider the intended lifespan of that new boiler in the context of 2030…

Transferring to renewable heat usually saves a lot of money. Annual returns on investment can be as high as 20%, thanks to savings on the fuel costs and generous Government subsidies. The subsidies are index-linked to the CPI and last for 20 years. However, the heat subsidy scheme will be closing for new entrants on 1st April 2021. So, estates need to act soon, or risk having to switch after April 2021 without the support of the current subsidy regime.

Switching to renewable heating systems is not just a way to save money. There are clear sustainability and CSR benefits.

All types of renewable heat generate less NOx than oil, so air quality is improved. Quality of life is better: there is lots of evidence that when renewable systems are designed and installed correctly the quality  of the heating improves, both output and occupancy comfort.

Fuel price security is improved: our extensive modelling of differing fuel price and CPI inflation rates shows that the greatest financial risk is to remain on oil.

The best return on investment is achieved when the school or rural estate finance the programme. However, for those that don’t have a budget but want to act soon, we have a range of financing options that have evolved in the light of feedback from clients.

The renewable heat market has matured a lot in recent years and there are now several reliable options. We’ve yet to find a situation where one of them does not fit the bill. It’s usually more a question of which one best suits a specific estate.

There’s a good reason to be banging the drum.