The Government’s newly announced plans for switching the nation to green energy are most welcome, especially as they make it clear that eventually we will not be able to use gas to heat our homes.

In summer 2019, I considered replacing my 20-year-old highly inefficient gas boiler with a modern version, which would have cost me £5,000. But knowing that gas had no future, I bought an air source heat pump and four upgraded central heating radiators instead, which after seven years will have cost me nothing. And I will have a lower energy bill as well.

This is because the government’s Renewable Heat Initiative (RHI) is paying me £1,600 a year for the next seven years for the energy I generate from the heat pump, which will roughly equal the £12,000 cost of the pump and radiators. In addition, my energy bill has fallen from £150 to £60 per month, though some of this is due simply to replacing the old gas boiler. So the message is clear – don’t even think about replacing your old gas boiler with a new one until you have checked out the government’s RHI and the cost of installing a heat pump.

Needless to say, it’s not quite as simple as that - for example you aren’t eligible for the RHI unless your home is insulated to an appropriate standard. And installing a heat pump does cause a certain amount of upheaval and may not be suitable for everyone.

I would be happy to share my experience with anyone who wants to contact me by email at dreidd@AOL.com. When lockdown restrictions permit, I will be happy to show you around my installation on the Cassiobury estate.

I do not receive commission from any manufacturer or other organisation but I am most anxious to help everyone to do their bit towards zero carbon emissions – and in this case, while the RHI lasts, you can actually make money out of it.

Donald Reid,

address supplied