Making the most of renewable energy systems DG 531
Making the most of renewable energy systems (DG 531) was written by John Holden and published on 30 June 2014. BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries.
Renewable energy systems extract energy from sunlight, air, water or the ground and convert it into a useable form – usually electricity or heat. They can wholly or partially replace systems using gas, mains electricity or oil. However, when considering using renewable energy systems instead of such traditional systems, many additional factors that influence safety, reliability and performance need to be considered.
This 12-page BRE Digest describes the most popular renewable energy technologies included in the Microgeneration Certification Scheme. It provides an overview of the safety, performance and reliability considerations for each technology, together with eligibility criteria for financial incentives.
It is intended for anyone considering, or responsible for, small-scale renewable energy systems serving domestic or non-domestic buildings. This includes architects, specifiers, landlords, home and business owners. A number of references are provided for a more detailed review of specific technologies.
Its contents are:
- Introduction.
- Performance.
- Reliability.
- Feed-in Tariffs.
- Solar thermal collectors.
- Renewable Heat Incentive.
- Biomass.
- Small and micro wind turbines.
- The Microgeneration Certification Scheme.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- BRE articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BREEAM Energy efficient equipment
- BREEAM Free cooling
- BREEAM Low carbon design
- BREEAM LZC technologies
- BREEAM Passive design
- BREEAM Reduction of energy use and carbon emissions
- BREEAM.
- Building Research Establishment.
- Financing our future energy infrastructure
- Geothermal energy.
- Microgeneration Certification Scheme.
- Renewable energy.
- Solar photovoltaics
- Solar thermal systems.
- Tidal lagoon power.
- Types of fuel.
- Wind Energy in the United Kingdom.
- Wind farm.
- Wind turbine.
Featured articles and news
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.