Electricity, solar, heating, tariffs and efficiency.
Comparison · Electricity and gas plans
A fixed plan holds the unit rate for the contract term, which gives budgeting certainty but usually comes with an exit charge and no benefit if wholesale costs fall. A variable plan moves with the supplier's costs or a published index, so bills can rise or fall without notice. Compare how rates are set, what ends the lock, and what leaving early costs.
How to choose · Solar panels
Judge installers on certification, the quality of the site assessment, equipment transparency, warranty structure and who handles grid connection and paperwork. A good quote follows a roof inspection or detailed imagery, names components, explains shading and orientation losses, and states who supports the system if the installer closes. Schemes and rules vary by country, so check your energy agency's accreditation list.
How to choose · Home batteries
Size on two separate numbers: energy capacity, which sets how long the battery can supply your evening and overnight load, and power output, which sets how many appliances it can run at once. Study your own interval data, your solar surplus, and whether you want backup during outages. Oversizing leaves capacity idle; undersizing leaves expensive grid use at peak times.
Comparison · Heating systems
A boiler makes heat by burning fuel at high flow temperature; a heat pump moves heat from air, ground or water and works best delivering lower-temperature heat over long periods. The decision turns on the building's heat loss, the emitters, available space, local energy prices, and the support rules in your country. A heat-loss survey, not a sales visit, should set the answer.