If you are looking to support the environment and save money on your energy bills, using biomass fuel is one of the best ways to achieve this. Using bio-energy is one way you can apply for the UK government’s Renewable Heat Incentive scheme, which means you could receive quarterly cash payments across 7 years for using an eligible renewable heating technology. The scheme was introduced to encourage the uptake of renewable heat technologies for householders, communities and businesses through financial incentives. This plan was projected to contribute 12% of heating coming from renewable sources by this year. There are two different versions of the Renewable Heat Incentive, which we will explore during this blog. Domestic and Non-Domestic Renewable Heating Incentives Domestic RHI – The domestic RHI scheme was launched on 9th April 2014 and provides financial support to the owner of the renewable heating system for seven years. This scheme covers England, Wales and Scotland. If the renewable heating system heats only a single property which is capable of obtaining a domestic Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) open key term pop-up, you can apply for the domestic RHI scheme. The EPC is proof needed that your property is assessed as a domestic dwelling. Please note, without this, you cannot join the RHI scheme. Non-Domestic RHI – The non-domestic RHI is a programme that provides financial incentives to increase the uptake of renewable heat by businesses, the public sector plus non-profit organisations. Eligible installations will receive quarterly payments across 20 years based on the amount of heat generated. Much the same as the domestic scheme, this covers England, Scotland and Wales. Save Money with Biomass Fuel Heating P.H Winterton is delighted to be part of the UK government’s Biomass Fuel Supplier List, which was introduced by the Department of Energy and Industrial Strategy in April 2014. This allows participants in the Renewable Heating Incentive to simply demonstrate to Ofgem that fuel they are using in their biomass boilers meets the sustainability criteria to claim RHI payments. Get in Touch for More Information If you need more information regarding biomass fuel or the Renewable Heating Incentive, please contact us...
Read Moreabout Understanding Biomass Fuel and the Renewable Heat IncentiveDue to the COVOD-19 pandemic, the British Equestrian Federation has advised against riding, meaning you will need to find ways to adapt your daily routine and maintain the health of their horses. Here at P.H Winterton, we understand the importance of keeping your horse happy during these challenging times, which is why we have drawn up some activities you can take part in, without leaving the stable. Six Ways to Keep Your Horses Happy During Lockdown 1. Lungeing – This is a great way to keep your horse exercised, just make sure you wear a hat, gloves and suitable footwear. Before starting lungeing we would recommend reading up on what your horses need to wear and how to lunge if you haven’t attempted this much previously. 2. Long-Reigning – Much the same as lungeing you will need to ensure you and your horse are dressed appropriately plus you can move onto exercises like leg-yielding when you both have had sufficient practice. 3. Grooming Sessions – Take some time out to give your horse a good grooming session getting to know every inch of their body. You may be surprised at the number of small lumps and old scars that have been missed during a daily flick over. Learn how warm each of his legs feels and how filled they are plus how they vary during different times of the day. You can pull his mane and tail if needed, trim his bridle path and heels if appropriate to his type and job. 4. Horse Agility – A basic agility course involves leading a horse through a corridor in the shape of an S without your horse stepping out or touching the poles. Another activity you could work on could be leading your horse through a curtain or a narrow gap or over a tarpaulin. Remember to always assess the risk of trying new exercises, in case your horse is sharp or easily spooked. 5. Assess Your Horse’s Conformation – Pull out your Pony Club Manual of Horsemanship and take a look at your horse and make a critical analysis of his conformation. Now it is time to consider how this impacts on his work and the way you train...
Read Moreabout Keeping Your Horse Happy without RidingFurther use of biomass fuel across different industries is one of the most innovative methods to achieve future Government climate targets. P.H Winterton, are part of the UK’s biomass supplier list, making us one of the recognised providers of this low-carbon energy solution for the West Midlands. For our latest blog, we are going to explain how biomass fuel works, its benefits and why it needs to be used more in numerous sectors. The Environmental Benefits of Biomass Energy Bioenergy currently represents 7.4% of the UK’s primary energy supply mix (according to REA), but it this energy source that will play a crucial role in the decarbonisation of sectors such as transport and industries which rely increasingly on electrified technologies and system. The Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA), has stated that the country should aim to more than double this figure to 16% by 2032, which would help climate targets to be achieved. The UK Government has announced it will be extending the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) until March 2022, with the introduction of flexible tariff guarantees to non-domestic RHI until March 2021. The RHI was originally set to close at this time, but now households that have signed up to the scheme will continue to receive payments until the end of the 7-year agreement. This scheme was put in place to convert 12% of UK homes to a renewable heat source (such as biomass fuel) by the end of 2020, with current figures suggesting it will reach between 8 and 10%. Biomass Fuel Available from P.H Winterton P.H Winterton offers two types of biomass fuel to customers in domestic, commercial and industrial environments – P16 grade – Smaller sized wood chip P35 grade – A-grade wood with no contaminants present If you are interested in implementing biomass energy in your property, please contact us today and we can recommend the best product for...
Read Moreabout How Biomass Fuel Helps to Reach Climate TargetsWith the latest Government advice for people to stay at home for an extended period due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many horse riders have questioned whether they can still ride their horses whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines. Here at P.H Winterton, we understand the importance of maintaining the health of your horse during this difficult time, which is why we have put together this handy guide with regards to riding your horse. Guidance from Governing Bodies Whilst no official guidelines have been published by the Government regarding animal care, the British Equestrian Federation have stated the following – “At present, there are no definitive guidelines or restrictions around caring for and riding horses, and we will share anything which becomes available from the Government via the British Horse Council. “It is sensible to avoid any activities that carry an increased risk of injury, such as jumping, fast work and riding a young, fresh or spooky horse. “If you must hack out, be mindful of other people walking, cycling and running, and keep 2 metres distance. Lungeing, in-hand work and turn-out are good alternatives to ridden exercise.” Equine Bedding has Never Been More Important During these unusual times, it is extremely important to ensure your horses have a comfortable home while their usual routines are disrupted. Investing in high-quality equine bedding from P.H Winterton is the best way to ensure they have a good night’s sleep. We offer three choices of equine bedding, designed to suit all requirements and budgets. Our Cheshire Choice horse bedding is our premium range, whilst our Economy Bale is ideal for those riders with a stricter budget plus we recently added Zebra Fibre Bedding to our catalogue. Choose P.H Winterton for Equine Bedding If you are looking to invest in the best equine bedding available in the country, look no further than P.H Winterton and Son. Get in touch today to discuss our range and transform your horse’s stables...
Read Moreabout Can I Ride My Horse During Lockdown?With the news that this year’s Grand National has been cancelled due to the spread of the coronavirus, it’s more important than ever to maintain the health of your horse. Sporting events are being cancelled for the foreseeable future, with the flagship horse racing event, due to take place on 4th April the latest to be culled. Here is a statement from Sandy Dudgeon, Senior Steward of the Jockey Club, “Public health must come first. “We were working on a plan to stage the Grand National behind closed doors given its importance to the racing industry and beyond but following the new government measures confirmed this evening to help to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, this is not a viable option. “I know this is hugely disappointing news for the many people who work in our sport and the many millions who were looking forward to this year’s event, but very sadly these are exceptional times, and this is the responsible thing to do.” Why Quality Equine Bedding Benefits your Horse With competitions being cancelled, your horses will still need exercise as well as maintaining their health ready for when events start up again. Your choice of bedding goes a long way to ensuring your horse’s get the best night’s sleep possible. P.H Winterton currently provides three different types of equine bedding, aimed to suit your needs and budget. Our current stock includes – • Cheshire Choice Bedding – Our premium horse bedding solution • Economy Bale Bedding – Ideal for those working to a tight budget • Zebra Fibre Bedding – Our newest range of horse bedding has superb absorbency qualities We stock large quantities of horse bedding at our premises in Staffordshire, meaning that we can supply between one and 18 pallets. The British weather can be quite unpredictable, which is why we offer outside storage covers that will protect it against adverse conditions. For More Information Contact Us If you would like to know any more about any of P.H Winterton’s range of animal bedding, please get in touch...
Read Moreabout Maintaining Your Horse’s Health with P.H Winterton