Living Green in Richmond: Juliet’s Journey with Solar & a Heat Pump

On a sunny Thursday not far from the leafy expanses of Richmond Park, we caught up with one of our brilliant clients, Juliet, to hear about her experience switching to renewable energy. Her charming 1960s-era home now runs on solar power and a heat pump - both steps toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Although her house isn’t a new build, our team retrofitted the heat pump with ease. As Juliet puts it, “the process was smooth, and the result well worth it.”

Here’s what she had to say about life post-installation.

“Just go for it”: Why Juliet Loves Her Heat Pump

“If you’re thinking about installing a heat pump, I would say go for it - I honestly couldn’t think of a downside.”

Juliet is refreshingly clear on this point. Her heat pump, installed just over a year ago, has been quietly and efficiently heating her home - without any fuss.

While some articles online might sow doubt, Juliet’s lived experience tells a different story: “It’s saving us money, it’s good for the planet, and it’s not noisy - despite what some newspaper articles claim. It just has a very gentle hum.”

Even with an older home that isn’t perfectly insulated, the system performs brilliantly. “We only had to change three or four radiators, and we’re warm even in the winter. It’s just a no-brainer.”

Low Maintenance, High Satisfaction

For Juliet, one of the biggest advantages has been the low maintenance. “It’s a big win against a traditional gas boiler,” she says with a smile. “Nothing’s gone wrong with it. We’ve had hot water when we needed it, the house stays warm, and our installer offers an annual maintenance check - so far, so good.”

No breakdowns. No stress. Just reliable, clean energy.

Yes, the App is Addictive (In a Good Way)

One unexpected highlight? The energy monitoring app.

“It’s become this immensely entertaining hobby - checking the app constantly to see how much money we’re making,” Juliet laughs.

But beyond the novelty, the app has changed how she thinks about energy use. “You become aware of when you should be using your appliances to be more energy efficient. I had no idea how energy-intensive an extractor fan is - or a kettle!”

Juliet’s small, informed changes are proof that awareness alone can make a real impact.

Going Gas-Free: A Personal Mission

Juliet’s move to renewable energy wasn’t just about the cost savings - though those certainly help. Her deeper motivation was environmental.

“It just feels so much better knowing we’re drawing heat from the air, not burning oil or gas,” she says. “We’re doing our part, and hopefully showing others they can too.”

If there’s one thing she’d change? “I wish more people in the UK were doing the same. We have one of the lowest uptakes of heat pumps in Europe. It’s such a shame - people are really missing out.”

Installation: Far Easier Than Expected

“The actual installation probably took about a week - maybe even less,” Juliet recalls.

With the outdoor heat pump unit, a day of prep, and a few days to upgrade radiators and complete wiring, she found the process remarkably smooth.

“It’s honestly far less invasive than I expected. Especially compared to some of the work we’ve done on the house in the past!”

In Safe Hands with Your Energy Your Way

When it came to choosing an installer, Juliet says she struck gold.

“They’re just the most fantastic company. I couldn’t believe it when I found them - set up by two female entrepreneurs who are training other women in heat pump and solar panel engineering? Incredible.”

From start to finish, she felt supported. “We had at least two female apprentices on-site along with male engineers, and everyone we dealt with was helpful, efficient, and punctual. Honestly, they were lovely. I would wholeheartedly recommend them.”

Thinking About Making the Switch?

Juliet’s story is a testament to how renewable energy can be accessible, effective, and even - dare we say it - fun. With a little curiosity, a willingness to try something new, and the right people to guide the process, going green has never looked more appealing.

Thinking about making the switch? Take Juliet’s advice: just go for it.

If you're ready to make your home more energy efficient and less reliant on gas, we’re here to help every step of the way. Book a Discovery call to find out more.