Many UK homes could eventually be self-sufficient in energy needs, using home generators such as solar panels and micro-wind turbines, the government has suggested.

Households could even be able to make money by selling surplus electricity.

Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks suggested the new possibilities as he launched consultations on the development of “micro-generation” of low-carbon energy by homes, businesses and public buildings.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is developing a cross-government strategy, which includes a variety of technology including solar power, fuel cells, micro-combined heat and power and ground and air source heat pumps.

Launching the consultation at the Renewable Power Association annual conference in London, Mr Wicks said: “Power generation has traditionally been about giant station supplying whole cities, but the future may show that small is big. Some generation will move closer to home – giving individuals and small communities the chance to contribute directly to the UK’s long-term environmental and energy goals. There could also come a day when many people will receive a cheque alongside their energy bill.

“This consultation will give people the chance to share their views on how we can best promote the development and uptake of micro-generation and make it easier for people to adopt these technologies in their own neighbourhood. It’s all about looking to the future but acting now.”

Commenting on the consultation, Guy Thompson, director of environmental group Green Alliance said: “Micro-generation could play a huge role in tackling climate change and meeting our future energy needs. Not only is it low or zero carbon but also it engages people in the solutions to climate change.

“The strategy makes some progress, but it’s disappointing that so few specific policy measures are mentioned. Notably, no specific measures are proposed for stimulating uptake and consumer demand for micro-generation – an area where policy support is desperately needed.”

The Green Alliance has called for the government to introduce a series of measures, including stamp duty and council tax rebates, to encourage people to take up the scheme and the introduction of national and local government targets in order to provide the certainty needed for industry to invest.

Liberal Democrats environment spokesperson Norman Baker said that he was "very disappointed" by what he described as another "missed opportunity" by the government to tackle climate change. "Rather than go ahead with sufficient funds and the robust targets required to get this crucial technology off the ground, they simply trot out yet more green drivel and empty rhetoric."

(KMcA/SP)