Eco-minded self builders and renovators have led the way in terms of adopted renewable technologies, and their efforts could help you pick the right options for your home: the golden rule here is design the building to do the work - see the illustration below - then match your energy needs to that level.

Among the most popular technologies are solar photo voltaic panels, solar thermal panels, biomass boilers and ground-source or air-source heat pumps. Other renewable options include off grid sewage treatment and rainwater harvesting.