Having met, and meeting, many people from all walks of life an often asked question is how much a certain system cost and what its payback time is. Not an unimportant question really.

But not straight forward to answer. Because most homes needs are different and most peoples needs are different too, all systems are bespoke. However, I do feel that we do have to give a price indication.

We have quoted an architect  a little while ago regarding a 130 square metre 3 bedroom detached house. The house is new built, therefore the insulation and double glazing is taken care of. Please note, there will be no need for an expensive gas-grid connection.These cost can be off-set against the heat pump system.

It worked out for the need of an external 7kW heat pump, providing hot water and space heating. The air source heat pump itself costing £ 5009.55, life span 25 to 45 years accessories estimated £ 1000.00 and installing cost in that case, £1450.00.

A hot water storage cylinder an estimated £ 1250.00, life span 25 to 45 years.

An under floor heating system can be £ 40.00 per square metre (depending on floor type) some manufacturers guarantee on pipes is 50 years.

A Solar hot water system for a similar home can cost between £ 4.000 and £ 5.000, installed.            Collector panels guaranteed 20 years (depending on manufacturer) and life expectancy over 35 years.          Up to and over 70% free energy.

General domestic guideline prices:

Solar photovoltaics: £6000 to £9000 per kW installed, with most domestic systems normally between 1.5 and 3 kWp. Tiles cost more than panels, roof integrated cost more than those that sit on top, feed in tariff from April 2010 when supplying the grid.

Solar hot water: £3500 to £5500, depending on the collector, size and the system to be installed. Payback time from 5 year, depending on fuel replaced.

Heat pumps: £5000 for air source external system upward (average 3 bedroom house) internal system cost more to install and purchase, ground source heat pump cost more because of expensive ground loop or bore hole. A 66kW heat-pump for over 350 metre square can cost £16.000 exclusive of ground loop. Payback time from 5 year, depending on fuel and system replaced.

Bio-mass: log and multi fuel boilers may start at about £6000, wood-pellet system from £7500, a 30kW wood chip boiler may cost£30.000. Payback time from 5-6 year, depending on fuel replaced.

Wind turbines and Micro-Hydro cost are very site specific. Feed in tariff from April 2010.

Fossil fuel boiler: 100% fossil fuell dependent (grid or tank) life expectancy 8-10 year, no pay-back time. Annual boiler safety checks dependent. Carbon monoxide threat is always to be considered.

Grants and funding are available for domestic and SME’s applications.