Getting Grants From Your CouncilYou can make your home more energy efficient in many different ways from smaller jobs like switching to energy saving light bulbs to bigger jobs such as double-glazing, an energy efficient boiler or insulation. These larger projects will save you more energy – and money – in the long run, but the outgoing costs in the short term can often put off even the most eco-conscious of homeowners. This is where getting a grant from your local council to help with the costs of the work can really assist – as well as adding pounds to your property’s value.

But obtaining a grant from your council isn’t easy, particularly when most people don’t know what’s actually available to them. Each area and council has different schemes available to their residents, so you should always check with your council directly. However we have come up with some basics to help you become more energy efficient in the home with energy efficiency and other grants.

Types of Grants

Most energy efficiency grants are actually provided by central government funds, but applications are made at a local level through your council. Firstly, you should decide on the type of project you’re interested in doing to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Generally speaking, the following projects could have funding available:

  • Cavity wall insulation
  • Loft insulation and draught proofing
  • Heating
  • Appliances
  • Energy saving light bulbs
  • Micro renewable energy sources
  • Radiator panels

Finding out what’s Available

The type of grant you apply for depends on the area you live in. Below are a few examples.

England

The Warm Front Grant provides a package of insulation and energy efficient heating measures up to a maximum value of £2,700. The grant is available to the over 60s in receipt of some form of income or other benefit, or homeowners with children under 16 in the house also in receipt of a state benefit.

Wales

The Home Energy Efficiency Scheme could make up to £5,000 available to transform your home into a greener, more eco-friendly property. The same rules apply as with England’s Warm Front grant.

Scotland

Under the Warm Deal programme, homeowners receiving some form of income or housing benefit, or the over 60s, have £500 available from central funds to spend on insulation to keep their homes warmer and more energy efficient.

Northern Ireland

The Warm Homes grant provides a package of energy efficiency and heating measures up to the value of £850. Energy efficiency advice and guidance is tailored to each household. The scheme is aimed at owner-occupiers and people who rent their homes from private landlords.

Local Schemes

There are often local schemes available that give you a particular benefit – such as a rebate on your council tax in return for Installing Insulation in your home. If in doubt about what is available, contact your council’s local energy efficiency or sustainability department, or check local media for the latest offers, particularly as it draws closer to winter.

Energy Saving Trust

The Energy Saving Trust is a non-profit organisation, funded both by government and the private sector, set up to address climate change issues. For information and advice on energy efficiency issues, and to see if you’re eligible for any local grant schemes through them, you can call their helpline on 0800 512 012 to speak to a local advisor.