Grants available to make homes more energy efficient

Low-income home owners can now apply to Wyre Forest District Council for funding to make their home more energy efficient.

Grants are available for loft insulations, solar panels, draught proofing and the installation of high heat retention storage heaters.

The funding is available for properties which have a low Energy Performance Certificate, this means those which have a band rating of E,F or G. To meet the criteria, the combined household income must also be no more than £30,000. The maximum amount people can apply for is £10,000.

The new scheme is being funded as part of the Government’s Green Homes Grant Local Authority Delivery Scheme. Funding is limited and will be awarded on a first come first served basis. All improvement works must be complete by Wednesday 31 March 2021.

Councillor Nicky Martin, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet member for said:

“We are delighted to have secured this funding to help those people whose homes are the least energy efficient. It is an excellent opportunity to improve the energy efficiency of your home at no cost to the home owner. We do have a limited amount of grants to give out and so would encourage anyone who is thinking of applying to do so as soon as possible. “

More details about the scheme can be found at www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/energygrant

Anyone wishing to apply can email the Private Sector Housing team privatesectorhousing@wyreforestdc.gov.uk

People who do not qualify for the council scheme may still be able to get help making their home more energy efficient by applying for the Government’s Green Homes Grant. Vouchers cover two-thirds of the cost of eligible improvements, up to a maximum government contribution of £5,000. Details of this scheme can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-the-green-homes-grant-scheme