By Clear Skies Energy

When it comes to reducing your carbon footprint, two of the most popular home energy solutions in the UK are solar panels and air source heat pumps. Both offer clear environmental benefits and long-term savings, but which one is actually better for lowering your carbon emissions? At Clear Skies Energy, we’ve worked with hundreds of homes and businesses to install both technologies, and we’re here to help you make an informed choice.

Let’s start with solar panels. These photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight directly into electricity, helping to power your home with renewable energy. By generating your own electricity, you reduce your reliance on the grid, much of which is still powered by fossil fuels. For an average household, installing solar panels can save around one tonne of CO₂ per year. The beauty of solar is that it’s passive: no moving parts, low maintenance, and highly scalable depending on your roof space and budget. And with the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you can even earn money by feeding surplus energy back to the grid.

On the other hand, air source heat pumps work by extracting heat from the outside air and using it to warm your home and hot water. They’re highly efficient, using electricity to move heat rather than generate it. For every unit of electricity they use, they can provide three or more units of heat. When replacing a gas or oil boiler, an air source heat pump can reduce carbon emissions by up to 3 tonnes per year—making it one of the most impactful changes you can make in terms of home heating. Their performance does depend on your home being well-insulated, and while they do use electricity, pairing them with solar panels can make them even more eco-friendly.

So, which is better for your carbon footprint? If you’re comparing like-for-like carbon savings, air source heat pumps generally have the edge, especially if you’re switching from a fossil-fuel-based heating system. Heating accounts for a large proportion of household emissions in the UK, so making that switch can yield a significant reduction in your carbon footprint. However, solar panels also play a crucial role—particularly when it comes to electricity usage and helping to decarbonise the grid. They’re an excellent way to cut emissions and reduce bills, especially if your heating is already electric or you’re planning to add a heat pump later.

The truth is, the best solution for your carbon footprint is often a combination of both. Solar panels can supply the electricity needed to run your heat pump, creating a self-sustaining, low-carbon home. At Clear Skies Energy, we regularly install both systems side by side, tailored to each property’s needs, budget and goals.

If you’re looking to make your home greener and reduce your energy bills, our team can provide a personalised consultation to explore your options. Whether you start with solar, a heat pump, or go all-in on both, you’ll be taking a big step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Want to know what’s best for your home? Get in touch with Clear Skies Energy today – your trusted partner in renewable energy.