Looking into electric heating in Guernsey? Chances are you've heard a few things.
- "Watch out - Guernsey Electricity might refuse your load application."
- "The running costs are higher than you think."
- "If you want the cheap off-peak rates, you'll have to rip out all your radiators and pipework."
Fair points? Absolutely. Dealbreakers? Not anymore.
Every year, around 400 homes in Guernsey move to electric heating. But our underground electricity supply cables work like water pipes, they can only handle so much flow at once. When everyone switches heating on at 5pm while cooking dinner, the network hits a peak that's pricey to run. And if your local cable is already stretched by neighbouring demand, a standard flow boiler is unlikely to get the green light anymore.
That's why Guernsey Electricity created Off-Peak Heat 19.
Instead of drawing more expensive power during peak hours on the 'Superheat' tariff, Off-Peak Heat 19 powers a "wet" electric storage boiler that connects directly to your existing radiators and pipework, no major overhaul needed to enjoy off-peak electricity.
And the system will automatically do all the clock watching for you.
- Your boiler draws 19-hours of discounted electricity across night and daytime off-peak windows to heat and store thermal energy.
- During morning and evening peak hours, the boiler stops pulling heavy power from the grid and simply releases its stored heat when you need it.
- As it dodges peak-time grid strain, your 'load application' is more likely to be accepted.
Planning a switch or facing a refused application?
Ask your installer if an electric Off Peak Storage Boiler will be the right fit for your home.
