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Our Guru service answers your questions about renewable energy, rainwater harvesting, downshifting, and living free in the boonies. Whether it’s solar panels, wind turbines, micro-hydro or bio-diesel generators, we have the answers. And if we don’t know then we know people who do know.

There’s huge lessons to be learnt from off-grid living for even the most dedicated urbanite. So even if you are just thinking of getting ready for the off-grid future, you need to speak to the Green Guru. You can email your questions to guru(at)off-grid.net.

Probably the best way to go about this is by investing in solar panels – you can use them both to generate electricity and for water heating.

You can use solar panel systems if your home has a roof or wall that faces within 90 degrees of south, as long as no other buildings or large trees overshadow it. If the roof surface is in shadow for parts of the day then obviously the output of the system decreases.

Your roof must be strong enough to support the panels, which aren’t light – and take into account that you might be placing them on top of existing tiles (you can get solar panels integrated into tiles but they’re more pricey).

Some local authorities require planning permission to allow you to fit a PV system, especially in conservation areas or on listed buildings. Always check with your local authority about planning issues before you have a system installed.

Although domestic PV systems can cost around £9,000, there are some grants you can take advantage of (more on this later…)

As for water heating using solar, you first need to check that such a system will be compatible with your existing water heating system, as some combi boilers aren’t suitable.

The way it works is by collecting thermal energy (heat) which the system can then apply to your water supply. You also keep a store of water in a tank so you have a reserve. Making sure the tank is properly insulated will mean you can save energy on re-heating it.

A typical installation costs between £3,000 - £4,500, normally with a 5-10 year warranty, though they require little maintenance.

Now, to offset the cost of solar – which will set you back at least £4,000 wherever you go – you need to look into the DTI’s Low Carbon Buildings Programme. Luckily, it’s ‘householder stream’ is re-launching shortly on 29th May.

You really must be dedicated to cutting down your emissions because you need to commit yourself to a number of energy efficiency measures before you are eligible to apply for a low carbon buildings grant, making sure that you are minimizing your energy requirements. Before applying you are required to have:

1) insulated the whole of the loft of the property to meet current building regulations e.g. 270mm of mineral wool loft insulation or suitable alternative
2) installed cavity wall insulation (if you have cavity walls)
3) fitted low energy light bulbs in all appropriate light fittings
4) installed basic controls for your heating system to include a room thermostat and a programmer or timer.

If that sounds like a lot of hassle, don’t be put off just yet – government subsidies for installing renewables, rising fuel and water bills, the continuing global warming — all this and more will keep you interested in what the Green Guru has to say.

Look out for more handy tips from the Off-Grid Guru!