Free energy upgrades offered to Plymouth homes

It may be summer, but some Plymouth residents will be able to apply for free energy installations that will make their homes cosier without costing a penny or the earth.

People on a low income, those on certain benefits or live in a certain postcode could be eligible for the grant under the Warm Homes Local Grant.

The Warm Homes Grant provides eligible households with fully funded improvements designed to make homes warmer, more energy efficient and cheaper to run.

The scheme could see residents benefit from a range of installations, including:
• cavity wall and loft insulation
• air source heat pumps
• smart heating controls
• solar panels.

With energy costs continuing to impact households, these upgrades aim to reduce bills and support the city’s priority to improve the cost of living.

Eligible residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure their homes are prepared for the colder months.

Councillor Matt Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing said: “This funding is a fantastic opportunity for those who need it to reduce energy costs and make their homes warmer in the winter months. We understand that the cost of living is difficult for people and this scheme helps support people who might need that little bit of extra help.

“This supports this administration’s priority of reducing energy bills for hundreds of low-income households by delivering targeted energy efficiency improvements through external funding, strong partnerships, and a focus on those most in need.

“We encourage anyone who may be eligible to apply and take advantage of this support.”

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change added: “Making sure our residents can live in warm, energy-efficient homes is a key priority for us. This funding gives people a real opportunity to improve their homes, lower their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint at no cost. We strongly encourage anyone who may be eligible to apply and not miss out on this valuable support.”

To be eligible, your home must:
• be privately owned (either by you or your landlord)
• have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of D, E, F or G – if you do not know your home’s EPC, you can find it out when you apply
• your household income must usually be £36,000 a year or less. If you earn more, you might still be eligible if you:
• live in a certain postcode area
• someone in your household is getting certain benefits.