NEARLY two-thirds of Scots are interested in switching to renewable energy – but consider cost a major barrier.
A survey carried out for consumer advice website GreenEnergyNet.com showed that 64% of adults had thought about installing micro-renewables, such as solar panels and wood-fuel boilers, in their homes. Of those, 29% said they would very interested, but the poll also revealed that only 4% of households had introduced some form of the technology.
When asked why they had not installed renewables, the majority – 50% of the total sample of 1,002 and 59% of those who claimed to be interested – said they had been put off by the perceived price.
The news comes the same day as the launch of the Renewable Heat Premium Payment Scheme, which will offer financial help to homeowners looking to make the switch.
Scottish Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said there had “never been a better time to get on board the renewables revolution”.
He added: “The Energy Saving Scotland advice network helps with free, impartial and practical advice on how to get the maximum economic and environmental benefit from home renewables.”
Daniel Borisewitz, bioenergy and heat policy manager at Scottish Renewables, said its statistics were good news for businesses producing, selling and installing renewable heat products.
He added: “The renewable heat industry has grown significantly in recent years, providing many jobs in Scotland.”
The grants, which amount to £15million in total, are aimed at helping the country meet its renewable energy generation targets.
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