British Gas is launching a range of wind turbines and solar panels that will allow customers to generate their own power. The government has apparently assisted this ‘microgeneration’ trend by cutting red tape.  Can the democratisation of such technology save the planet?

I think it is critical for Western society. By embedding solutions within our homes you make it part of our lives. Environmentalism suddenly becomes something we control -rather than something we lobby other people to do on our behalf. From the corridors of BP offices, straight to our living rooms.

It also taps into the sweet spot for all successful charitable endeavours - that is where altruism and fashion collide. The most successful initiatives are always the most fashionable. Think about the Anya Hindmarch bag, the red AIDS ribbon, the yellow wristband. We all enjoy symbolising our support - and what better symbol could there be in the future than, say, a Conran designed mini wind turbine on your roof?

Your guests arrive for dinner. They clock your Bose speakers. They love your Lowe LCD screen. And “Oh, whats that?”… “Its our new fuel cell dock! Great isn’t it?”.

The motivation may not entirely pure, but effect is definitely for good.  I say green gadgets can’t come soon enough.