New research by energy specialists at Uswitch, a comparison and switching service, has identified which energy‑saving and environmentally friendly upgrades are attracting the greatest interest among consumers. The study examined a range of technologies – including heat pumps, solar panels and biomass boilers – by analysing online search data to measure average monthly search volumes and year‑on‑year changes across search engines, retail sites and social media platforms.

Rank
Energy Saving Product
Google Monthly Searches
TikTok Monthly Search Volume
Amazon Monthly Search Volume
YouTube Monthly Search Volume
Final Index Score
1
Solar panel
84,900
47,300
97,800
69,400
79
2
Wind turbine
24,040
17,300
35,800
25,400
75
3
Underfloor heating
39,480
21,200
43,700
31,100
70
4
Smart thermostat
10,300
7,700
16,000
11,400
66
5
Biomass boiler
19,900
3,500
7,100
5,100
64
6
Heat pump
51,130
31,700
65,400
46,400
61
7
Loft Insulation
36,600
25,900
53,500
38,000
59
8
Electric radiator
33,100
21,200
43,700
31,100
58
9
Pellet stove
2,540
1,500
3,200
2,300
53
10
Smart heating controls
1,300
830
1,700
1,200
50
11
Low-temperature radiator
170
130
280
200
46
12
Cavity wall insulation
18,100
14,200
29,300
20,800
43
13
Floor Insulation
5,620
3,500
7,100
5,100
40
14
Thermal energy storage
590
380
780
550
38
15
Infrared heating panel
28,810
3,500
7,100
5,100
34

Source: Uswitch: https://www.uswitch.com/gas-electricity/

  1. Solar panels had the highest online searches across Google, major social media channels and Amazon. Despite their popularity and predicted annual savings of £600, survey data from Uswitch shows that only 38% of homeowners have or would consider adding solar panels to their homes. 
  1. Wind turbines came second overall in the research. While less popular than solar panels, off-grid power sources like turbines can be added to homes either through rooftop or standalone options. While generally more expensive than solar panels, the UK’s status as the windiest country in Europe means that retrofitting wind turbines can generate a significant amount of energy.
  1. Underfloor heating-related searches have decreased across all major platforms; however, it remains the third most popular energy-saving installation. With high installation costs, underfloor heating can be the right option for new build homes or when building a new room or extension.
  1. Smart thermostats are the fourth most popular energy-saving device, despite only 35% owning or considering installing them. With costs between £100 to £200 to install, smart thermostats don’t directly save money on energy bills; they provide an option to heat your home more efficiently, helping to manage consumption.
  1. Biomass boilers are generally cheaper to run than gas or oil systems, costing around £400–£600 per year. While a more energy-efficient and sustainable option, they can be expensive to install. Those living in rural areas and unconnected to the gas grid could be eligible for £5,000 off installation costs as part of the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

While the research shows increased interest in energy-saving retrofits, survey analysis also uncovers that two-thirds (61%) of homeowners believe upfront cost is the biggest barrier to retrofitting.

Nearly two-thirds (60%) feel they do not know enough about the financial support or grants available to retrofit, while nearly half (48%) feel that retrofitting feels too disruptive, confusing or complex. 

Ben Gallizzi, energy expert at Uswitch.com, says:

“While interest in energy-saving technologies is still high, many households still feel unsure about where to start. Retrofitting doesn’t have to mean a full home overhaul; even small steps can make a difference to your energy use and long-term savings. The government’s support schemes are an important opportunity, and we’d encourage homeowners to explore what funding they might be eligible for before ruling out improvements.”

https://www.uswitch.com/gas-electricity/