Households in the UK have the opportunity to save up to £400 a year on energy bills, thanks to a new scheme offering free home improvements. The Great British Insulation Scheme, which officially launches today, aims to assist over 300,000 families in reducing their energy costs.
Free upgrades for lower council tax bands
The scheme targets households in lower council tax bands with fewer homes, providing them with essential upgrades to enhance their property's efficiency. These upgrades include roof, loft, or cavity wall insulation, which can potentially reduce annual energy bills by an average of £300 to £400.
Eligibility criteria and online checker
Residents in council tax bands A-D in England and A-E in Scotland and Wales are eligible for the government scheme. They must also have an energy performance certificate rating of D or below. To determine eligibility, customers can use the online checker available on the Great British Insulation Scheme's website. The checker asks several questions, such as heating methods, wall types, and benefit status.
Existing support and additional grant
The new scheme will run alongside the existing Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, which offers free home energy efficiency improvements to low-income families. Additionally, the government has introduced a separate checker for the Home Upgrade Grant, specifically assisting up to 25,000 off-the-gas-grid homes with an EPC rating of D to G. By using the online tools provided on the gov.uk website, eligible residents will be directed to either their energy supplier or local council for further assistance.
Statement from energy security secretary
Energy security secretary Claire Coutinho spoke exclusively to HOAR, reassuring readers that the government acknowledges the ongoing challenges faced by families. She highlighted the decrease in energy costs over the past year, emphasizing that this scheme will aid over 300,000 families, especially vulnerable ones, in keeping their homes warm while saving on energy bills.
What other help is available?
In addition to the Great British Insulation Scheme, there are other forms of assistance available for those facing financial difficulties. Some individuals may receive cost of living payments worth up to £1,350 this year, and pensioners entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2023/24 could receive an extra £150 or £300. Energy suppliers also offer various grants and schemes to support struggling households, including hardship funds and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which provides free cash to help reduce energy bills.
