With fluctuating fuel bills and the threat to the environment by fossil fuels the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) is operating a £8m initiative to make renewable energy our New Year's resolution in 2008.

Over 1,600 private homes across Northern Ireland, ranging from small bungalows to large detached dwellings, are already enjoying the benefits of renewable energy, through government grant assistance with Reconnect.

The Reconnect initiative offers grants of up to 50% to private homeowners seeking to install domestic renewable energy systems, ranging from solar hot water panels, small scale wind turbines, wood fuelled boilers and geothermal heat pumps.

Jenny Pyper, Director of Energy Division, DETI said: "Northern Ireland currently generates around 95% of its electricity through the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and gas. Reconnect makes renewable energy a cheaper, easier and more practical option for people to heat and power their homes."

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Pyper warned time and grant funding for Reconnect are running out: "I would encourage anyone considering a domestic renewable energy system to make the call today on 0800 0234 077 and take a step towards going green."

Heat pumps are one of the most popular renewable energy systems available with Reconnect. There are several different types including, ground source, water source and air source. Local man Paul Kelly chose to install a ground source heat pump system along with a solar panel, earlier in 2007, to reduce his energy costs and carbon footprint.

Mr Kelly said: "The Ground Source Heat Pump provides the family with hot water 24/7, in any amount and always at a constant temperature. I would certainly recommend people take advantage of the Reconnect grant initiative. Grant aid of £3,000 went a good way pay for the system."

Jenny concluded: "Saving money, whilst improving our environment, is a perfect New Year's resolution. I thoroughly recommend investigating how Reconnect can help you install a renewable energy system into your home right away."

To find out more about renewable energy systems call the helpline 0800 0234 077 or log onto: www.reconnect.org.uk , Alternatively text ENERGY to 60900 or email [email protected]

(GK/JM)