More than 300,000 families are expected to reap the rewards of a new scheme to drive forward energy efficiency upgrades.
The government announced the launch of the Great British Insulation Scheme, devoting £1bn towards roof, loft or cavity wall insulation for families in lower council tax bands that are living in less energy efficient homes. It is expected that the improvements could help cut their annual energy bills by around £300 to £400 on average.
Specifically, the scheme is targeted at those on lowest incomes and will strive to extend support to a wider range of households compared to government initiatives that already exist. Families in council tax bands A to D in England are eligible, as well as A to E in Scotland and Wales, with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of D or lower.
An online checker is running alongside the scheme, meaning customers can check whether or not they are eligible through asking a series of questions, such as how they heat their home, whether it has solid or cavity walls, and if they are receiving any benefits. A separate checker has also been launched for the Homes Upgrade Grant (HUG).
Once completing either of the online tools, customers will be referred to their energy supplier for support from the ECO programme and Great British Insulation Scheme, or their local council for the HUG.
