Property development nowadays is all about going electric, with things like electric heating and electric car charging points becoming the norm. But here’s the catch; these electrical innovations are pushing Guernsey’s 20th century electricity network to its limits.
Need some good news?
Spoiler alert: we’re not pulling the plug. Our grid is now progressing through one of the largest upgrades in 50 years.
It’s a comprehensive but exciting island-wide project, paving the way for a more sustainable future to help align Guernsey with 2040 Net Zero targets.
To imagine what’s happening, picture an extension lead with every socket taken.
Trying to install an electric boiler on a cable already at capacity is like trying to plug in another appliance in an already full extension lead – it just isn’t possible. You’ll need to upgrade your extension lead.
So what are your options if you want electric heating in your property?
Understanding the challenge
Modern electric heating places huge obligations on a network designed for the 20th century demands.
However, since the States of Guernsey approved the Electricity Strategy in 2023, we’ve been making our way around the island, increasing capacity in all areas of the network.
But this is a journey to 2050 that can’t happen overnight.
Planning for your future
Proactive planning is a must for electrical property development.
Your underground electricity cable may need an upgrade, which means your installer needs to apply for additional power (“load”) from Guernsey Electricity. As waiting lists are long, please always submit your ‘Additional Load’ application well in advance.
TIP: Planning driveway upgrades? Consider applying for additional load first.
If your property needs a ‘supply line’ cable upgrade, we’ll need to excavate your outdoor area. Usually the cable itself won’t cost you anything if it’s for a regular property, but please double-check.
Panel Radiator Revolution
Most people don’t realise electric panel radiators are different to electric boiler systems.
They give you modern, practically 100%-efficient electric heating, minus the fuss of traditional boilers and potential leaks from complicated plumbing systems.
Plus, you can control each room’s heat using an app, much like having a personalised thermostat for each person in the property. Inevitably, all this is likely to save on your energy bills.
The trouble is, panel rads still need ‘load’ applications. And if your application is refused, what are your alternatives while you wait for the grid upgrades?
Off-Peak Heating
Panel radiators and ‘Off-Peak Heating’ both need some property wiring and adjustments.
The difference is Off-Peak Heating uses cheaper, overnight electricity to store heat in storage heaters, then radiators release this heat when you need it.
Check out the pricing for Off-Peak Heating on the Super Economy 12 Tariff 'Low Rate'.
Think of it like charging a phone. Off-Peak electricity charges storage blocks in the heating units while you sleep. Then you can enjoy this stored heat energy as comforting warmth first thing, or when you return home on a chilly winter day.
The result?
- Cheaper heating for your home*
- Less strain on the electricity network
- Heat powered using low-carbon electricity imported from the European grid
By the time your area gets its network upgrade in a few years, you’ll be fully prepared for electric panel radiators – an enhancement that could be a major selling point.
TIP: Make sure you’ve got two cables per heater
One cable will power the controller 24/7 and the other will supply off-peak electricity to charge the heaters. Then take full advantage of all Off-Peak Heating’s modern features.
Adding value to your property
Electric boilers aren’t banned, but not every property can have one right away.
So by developing your property for Off-Peak Heating, you can help future-proof your property while enjoying cleaner, greener heating that doesn’t cost the earth.
Off-Peak Heating charges up on the lowest tariff available in Guernsey**
Insulation Insight
Many people believe they pay for the heat that warms their rooms.
In reality, what you’re actually paying for is heat lost through the fabric of your building, such as the roof, walls and windows. That’s why modern new-builds are so energy efficient as the building fabric is specifically designed to keep heat in.
‘Fabric First’ is a concept gaining worldwide momentum and worth exploring if you’re serious about developing an energy-efficient, more sustainable property.
- Step One: Plug the gaps in your property using insulation
- Step Two: Then invest in low-carbon heating solutions
Can’t see where you’re losing heat? We can help with that.
Find out more about our Home Energy Saving Audit.
*cheaper when compared to an electric boiler running on the Superheat Tariff
**Super Economy 12 Tariff ‘Low-Rate’ overnight time bands.
