What’s Holding You Back from Switching to Renewable Energy?

It’s no secret – more and more people are considering the switch to renewable energy. With sky-high energy bills, growing awareness of the climate crisis, and a real push for cleaner, greener alternatives, it’s easy to see why renewable energy is front of mind.

But while the interest is rising, the uptake still isn’t quite where it could be.

So what’s holding people back?

Here at Net Zero Club, we believe the first step to breaking down barriers is understanding them. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options, or you’re sitting on the fence, you’re not alone.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common concerns that stop people from making the switch – and why they might not be as daunting as they seem.

1. The Upfront Cost

The myth: “It’s just too expensive to install solar panels or a heat pump.”

The reality: Yes, there can be an upfront investment – but there are also grants, schemes, and long-term savings to consider. Programmes like the Smart Export Guarantee, Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and local authority funding can significantly reduce the cost. And once installed, renewable systems often pay for themselves over time through reduced energy bills.

2. Not Owning the Property

The myth: “I rent, so there’s nothing I can do.”

The reality: While some options are limited, tenants can still play a role. You can talk to your landlord about potential upgrades or join green energy tariffs through your provider, which support renewable generation. Community energy projects are also a great way to contribute, even if you can’t install systems directly.

3. It Feels Too Complicated

The myth: “It’s all too technical – I don’t even know where to start.”

The reality: We get it – it can feel overwhelming at first. But renewable energy doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small: switching to a green tariff, using a smart meter, or learning how your home uses energy. The more you understand, the easier it becomes to take bigger steps.

4. Not Sure It’ll Work in the UK

The myth: “It’s always cloudy – surely solar won’t work here?”

The reality: Believe it or not, solar panels don’t need blazing sunshine to generate power – they work even on overcast days. The UK might not be the sunniest place on Earth, but many homes still produce more than enough electricity to cover a big chunk of their usage.

5. Waiting for Better Tech

The myth: “I’ll just wait until the tech improves or prices drop.”

The reality: While technology is always evolving, the current solutions are already efficient, reliable, and accessible. Delaying means missing out on savings now, and contributing more carbon emissions in the meantime. Today’s systems are built to last – and future-proofing your home now can pay dividends later.

So, What’s Your Biggest Barrier?

We want to hear from you! Everyone’s situation is different, and it’s important to talk openly about the real challenges people face when considering renewables.

Drop us a message, join the discussion, or explore our Knowledge Exchange to learn more about what’s possible. The path to net zero isn’t one-size-fits-all – but every step forward counts.

Need Help Getting Started?

Whether it’s understanding solar, exploring energy tariffs, or finding funding support, we’re here to make the journey easier. Let’s move towards a cleaner, more affordable energy future – together.