As climate change plays havoc with our weather, many of us will be looking forward to spring and we could be forgiven for dreaming of jetting abroad to enjoy at least a couple of weeks of sunshine later in the year. This winter has been the coldest in over 50 years and many householders are likely to get an unwelcome surprise when their Gas, Oil and Electricity bills drop through the letterbox over the next couple of months.

However this needn’t be the case, for a well insulated home and an efficient heating system can save homeowners hundreds of pounds in their energy bills. Renewable systems are also now widely available and solar panels like the ones shown on this house will still be effective in dull and overcast conditions. Most of these systems can be retro fitted to existing homes or put in at the same time as an extension or major renovation.

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The greatest reward however is available to those building their own home. A little thought at the design stage of a new building can help you save the planet whilst giving you complete freedom to choose the most suitable combination of high performance building materials and energy efficient water and heating systems.

Did you know that an ordinary shower uses half as much water as a bath, but a power shower actually uses more? Or if half the population of Belfast turned off the tap when brushing their teeth, three million litres of water would be saved every day? So if you want to stay clean and green think about installing a rainwater harvesting system.

All of this technology and more can be seen at the Self Build, Extend & Renovate Show at the King’s Hall Belfast, which runs from 20 February - 22 February.

Clive Corry, Director of Self Build Ireland Ltd, organiser of the show, said: "This is a unique and dedicated event with more than 250 exhibitors providing plenty of choice for those who wish to build, extend or renovate their home. Do you want to roof your house with slates, tiles or thatch? For the interior inside, choose from a wide selection of kitchens, bathrooms, floor and wall coverings. The only limit is your imagination."