Bucks householders urged to take up free home improvement opportunity

Thursday, 8 December 2022 11:02

By Sam Dean

Low-income householders in Buckinghamshire, whose homes have a poor energy performance rating, are being urged to apply for free funding to make improvements to their homes which could reduce their energy bills.

The deadline to apply for the grants provided by central government is 31^st December, and they are available to both homeowners and private renters who meet the eligibility criteria.

To qualify, homes should have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E, F or G (a D rating may be eligible in some circumstances) and the households should have an annual income of no more than £30,000 or be on means-tested benefits.

The application form can be found here.

Gareth Williams, Buckinghamshire Council's Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Environment explained: "These grants provide an incredible opportunity for people who are likely to be really struggling with the rising energy costs we are all facing.

“It gives them the power to be able to do something about potentially reducing their bills and the best part is, it won't cost them a penny."

Types of improvements include:

Insulation and ventilation
An upgrade to a low carbon heating system such as an air source heat pump
Heating controls
Energy efficient hot water solutions
Energy efficient lighting

For owner occupiers, the work will be carried out for free. For rental properties (whether private or social), the landlord will be expected to pay at least one third of the cost towards the work.

Those who have an annual income of under £20,000 after housing costs are taken out are also eligible. Allowances are made for the number of children in the household and also for those who have recently lost income.