Smart ways to save your energy

Northern Ireland Electricity’s Smart programme offers grants to people who are willing to use alternative energy sources, such as solar water heating and wind turbines.

Gwyneth Compston of NIE Energy said the demand for renewable energy sources was at an all time high. “Generating electricity and heat from our natural resources appeals to a broad range of people, both to save money and to help protect our environment,” she added.

“In recent years NIE has encouraged the installation of renewable and energy saving technologies, and has worked with a range of organisations to promote solar, wind, hydro and biomass across Northern Ireland. All of these technologies have the added advantage of reducing the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into the local atmosphere, and that’s a New Year’s resolution that everyone should aim to keep.”

It is not just homes and businesses that can benefit from the scheme, as NIE is also offering grant funding to schools, charities and community groups.

For further information on the full range of grants available go to www.nie-yourenergy.co.uk. Funding support is available on a first come, first served basis.