TIME is running out for homeowners in Warwick district to apply for funding to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
Funded by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and delivered by WDC’s delivery partner E.ON – with support from Act On Energy – the Green Homes Grants scheme aims to help improve the energy efficiency of low income private households in the district with free home improvements including solar PV panels, insulation and air source heat pumps.
The scheme has recently installed measures, such as solar PV and insulation, for 12 residents and a further 250 properties are in the process of receiving energy efficiency improvements. The scheme closes soon, so residents are urged to check their eligibility and apply today.
To be eligible, residents must own and live in their home, or privately rent within Warwick district, have a gross household income of less than £30,000 year – or receives a means tested benefit – and have an EPC rating of D, E, F or G.
Funding for owner/occupiers is provided up to a maximum of £10,000 per property subject to the terms and conditions of the grant, with the work carried out by a Trustmark registered contractor.
Private tenants whose income meets the eligibility criteria are also encouraged to apply with the support and involvement of their landlord. Tenants are advised to speak to their landlord first to ascertain the energy performance rating of the property and ensure it meets the eligibility criteria. If landlords are unsure of the energy performance rating, tenants are still encouraged to apply.
There is no cost to the tenant, with landlords required to contribute a third of the cost and a maximum grant of £5,000 per property.
Landlords will benefit from the scheme by having a more energy efficient property, which will help meet future minimum EPC rating requirements. Their tenants should also benefit financially and will be less likely to struggle with paying rent and utilities during the current cost of living crisis.
WDC housing spokesperson Coun Jan Matecki said: “We recognise the importance of improving the energy efficiency of people’s homes not only for the climate, but also for the difference it makes to energy bills. Now has never been a more important time to do this, so I would encourage everyone eligible to get in touch and see what improvements can be made to your home to make it warm and affordable.”
For more information about the scheme visit warwickdc.gov.uk/greenhomesgrants or call Act On Energy on 0800 988 2881.
