Brits Embrace Green Home Upgrades and ‘Greenovation’
A recent study by Smart Energy GB has shed light on the growing trend of green home upgrades in Britain, with financial benefits at the forefront of homeowners’ motivation. While reducing carbon footprint remains a driving factor for some, the primary reason for installing eco-features is to save money on household bills. According to the research, 49% of respondents cited cost-saving as their main incentive, followed by enhancing energy efficiency (38%), improving functionality (18%), and modernising the property (15%).
The survey revealed that over half (58%) of households believe that eco-friendly home upgrades lead to immediate savings on bills, while 64% agree that such measures also increase the value of the property. This financial approach seems to have paid off, as 95% of ‘greenovators’ reported saving money through eco-upgrades, with an average annual reduction of over £300 in their bills.
Popular green home additions such as switching to LED lighting (21%), upgrading the boiler (18%), and installing solar panels (17%) not only provide short-term savings but also promise long-term financial benefits. Interestingly, households that have installed smart meters are reaping the most rewards, with 20% experiencing significant benefits from this simple upgrade. Smart meters allow users to track their energy usage in real-time, leading to a better understanding of consumption patterns and an estimated average annual saving of £176 on energy costs.
The influence of property-related content on TV, social media, and from home influencers has also played a significant role in driving the ‘greenovation’ movement. Around 40% of respondents admitted to being inspired by such content to make eco-friendly home improvements like installing heat pumps (13%) and draught-proofing (11%). Data from Rightmove further supports the financial gains of sustainable upgrades, indicating that improving a property’s EPC rating from E to B could save over £2,200 per year on bills for an average three-bed terraced house.
Looking ahead, there is a clear intent among homeowners to continue on the ‘greenovation’ path, with over three quarters (80%) planning to make sustainable improvements in the next three years. This includes upgrading boilers, installing solar panels, and other energy-efficient measures. Moreover, 69% of households express the importance of eco-friendly upgrades in their future property purchases.
In a bid to showcase the success of green home transformations, Smart Energy GB partnered with property expert and TV presenter, Scarlette Douglas, to explore unique eco-homes in Britain. From solar-powered lighting to rainwater recycling, the film highlights the innovative ways in which households are becoming more energy-efficient and cost-effective. Scarlette Douglas commended the financial benefits of smart meters and expressed inspiration from the eco-friendly homes she visited.
Victoria Bacon, Director at Smart Energy GB, emphasised the accessibility and impact of eco-upgrades, stressing that even small changes like smart meter installation can kickstart a sustainable home journey. She added that such initiatives not only reduce energy waste but also bring down bills while future-proofing properties. For more information on smart meters and energy reward schemes, homeowners are encouraged to explore the available options.