Energy and Utilities in Selsey
Gas, electricity and energy supply
Selsey is served by the standard energy and utility infrastructure that covers the Chichester district. Electricity is supplied through the national grid via the local distribution network, and mains gas is available in most parts of the town. Water is supplied by Portsmouth Water (for drinking water) and Southern Water (for wastewater and sewerage).
Energy costs in Selsey are governed by the national energy market and are subject to the same pricing pressures as the rest of the country. Residents can choose from the range of energy suppliers operating in the UK market, and the standard comparison and switching services apply. The energy performance of properties varies significantly, with older bungalows and houses tending to have lower insulation ratings than newer buildings.
Solar panels are visible on many rooftops in Selsey, taking advantage of the south coast's relatively high sunshine levels. The flat rooflines of the bungalow stock lend themselves to solar panel installation, and the financial and environmental case for domestic solar has improved as panel costs have fallen and energy prices have risen. Battery storage systems are increasingly being combined with solar panels to maximise self-consumption of generated electricity.
The flat, open landscape of the Manhood Peninsula has attracted interest from developers of larger-scale solar farms. Proposals for solar installations on agricultural land have generated local debate, with supporters citing renewable energy benefits and opponents raising concerns about landscape impact, loss of farmland and visual intrusion.
Offshore wind energy is visible from the Selsey coast. The Rampion wind farm, located in the English Channel off the Sussex coast, is visible from the shore on clear days. The turbines represent a significant contribution to the region's renewable energy supply.
Water supply in Selsey comes from Portsmouth Water, which draws its supply primarily from groundwater sources in the chalk aquifer of the South Downs. Water quality is generally high, and the supply is reliable. Southern Water manages the wastewater and sewerage infrastructure, and the performance of the system, particularly regarding storm overflows and their impact on the marine environment, has been subject to public scrutiny.
Energy efficiency improvements, including insulation, double glazing, heat pump installation and draught-proofing, are encouraged through government schemes and local authority programmes. The older housing stock in Selsey presents significant potential for energy efficiency improvements, and retrofitting programmes are available to eligible homeowners.