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Are you looking for ways to lower your energy bills, improve energy efficiency, and make your home more sustainable? The Independent’s Home channel offers expert, impartial advice on everything from air source and ground source heat pumps to gas boilers, solar panels, insulation, double-glazing, and other energy-saving upgrades. Our journalists have spent decades covering renewable energy, low-carbon heating, and home improvements, helping readers understand what really works, what doesn’t, and how to get the best value for money, including in-depth reporting produced in collaboration with trusted energy providers such as Octopus Energy.

Whether you’re weighing up the pros and cons of heat pumps, comparing solar panel costs, deciding whether to upgrade your windows, replace your boiler, or looking for simple ways to reduce energy use at home, we bring clarity to a complex and fast-changing market. Backed by more than 40 years of independent reporting, you can trust The Independent to cut through marketing claims and provide clear, practical guidance on reducing energy bills and future-proofing your home.

Latest news, guides and reviews

Are heat pumps worth it? The Independent’s guide

This guide looks at prices, efficiency and the factors that determine whether a heat pump is a good long-term investment

<p>Air source heat pumps extract heat from the outside air to warm homes and hot water, but their performance and value depends on factors such as insulation, property type and upfront installation costs.</p>

Heat pumps

Thinking about installing a heat pump in your home? The Independent’s heat pump guides bring together clear, impartial advice on air source and ground source heat pumps, how they work, how much they cost, and whether they’re right for your property. From upfront installation and government grants to running costs, efficiency, and suitability for older or larger homes, our experts cut through the noise to help you make an informed decision and understand whether a heat pump could help lower your energy bills and reduce your home’s carbon footprint at the same time.

<p>Government grants, along with the suspension of VAT on their purchase, mean heat pumps are more affordable than ever</p>

What are heat pumps?

Heat pumps are a cleaner alternative to gas boilers, with government grants now covering much of the upfront cost. Here’s what a heat pump is, how it works, and whether it could be right for you

Solar panels

The Independent has been at the forefront of climate reporting for decades, delivering trusted, expert-led insights on sustainability and renewable energy. Our experts review the best solar panels, assess the cost of solar panels, the best solar panel installers, and even explain how much you can expect to save over time. You’ll also find guides to heat pumps, battery storage systems, and other renewable technologies that can cut your carbon footprint.

Whether you're exploring the benefits of for your home or seeking the latest solar panel grants and funding schemes, we’re your go-to source for reliable, up-to-date information.

Home security

Looking for the best home security products and services for your property? We have you covered, with our review team and their extensive, real-world knowledge of security cameras, video doorbells and whole home smart security systems.

No matter your budget or the size of your home, we’ve tested dozens of devices to help you discover which system is best, bring you up to speed on smart home automation, and explain which security subscriptions offer you the best protection, and value for money.

Windows

Looking to keep the heat in and draughts out? We compare the best double glazing companies, explain the real cost of installing new windows, and review different types of home insulation to help you improve efficiency.

Our experts will also provide information on finance options, grants and what to avoid when it comes to replacing windows.

Home improvement inspiration

There are many ways to improve your home, making it warmer, brighter, quieter or more secure. Keep up to date with the latest news, ideas and decoration advice to help you make the right choices for your home.

IndyBest Home & Garden

Our team of trusted experts review thousands of products every year to help you keep your property in the best shape possible, whether you’re planning on making your space more environmentally friendly, stepping up your home security or improving your garden. Our reviewers are constantly testing everything from mattresses and robot vacuum cleaners to gas BBQs and patio heaters. When we review products we will always test quality, ease of use and value for money.

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