Grant available to install energy saving measures in borough’s most inefficient homes

Residents in homes that are not connected to the gas network could be able to access a new grant to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.

The Home Upgrade Grant, secured by Cheshire West and Chester Council from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, is available to eligible properties which are not heated by mains gas. Typically, the main heating source for these properties will be electric, Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG), oil or solid fuel.

Households will need to apply for the funding and the measures installed could include such things as external and internal wall insulation, loft insulation, under-floor insulation, air source heat pumps, single glazed window and door upgrades, high heat retention electric storage heaters and solar panels.

To be eligible to apply for the funding households must meet the following criteria.

• Have an annual combined household income of £30,000 (gross) or less per year (there is some flexibility on household income if there are children in the household) or be in receipt of a qualifying benefit (Universal Credit, Pension Credit Guarantee, Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance, Income-Related Job Seeker’s Allowance, Tax Credits (Child/Working) and Income Support

• You must be a homeowner or private tenant (tenants must have their landlord’s approval to apply)
   
• Your property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is Band E, F or G. If your property does not have a current EPC, we can arrange one for you if you qualify for the scheme.

Councillor Matt Bryan, Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Climate Emergency, said: “With energy rates on the rise and the current cost of living crisis affecting so many of our residents, the Home upgrade Grant will be essential in helping households living in some of the most inefficient homes across the borough. The energy saving improvements will help to reduce households heating bills, providing warm, safe homes which can significantly improve residents’ health and wellbeing.

“These improvements also play an important role in reducing emissions in the borough and will contribute to our target of becoming a carbon neutral borough by 2045.”

Mr Parry, from Ellesmere Port who had external insulation installed at his home during the last round of funding, said: “I’m more than happy with the workmanship that has been carried out on my property. There have been a few chilly nights and you can feel the benefit due to the external cladding already. The workmen involved were very professional, clean and efficient.  The property, apart from being a lot warmer is also now very quiet.  I am sure there will be a lot of savings once the winter approaches.”

All energy efficiency measures are fully funded for homeowners.  Eligible private tenants can apply with their landlord’s approval.  In the case of a tenanted property the landlord is required to make a minimum one-third contribution.

The improvements must increase your home’s EPC rating by at least two bands to qualify.  For example, if your home is currently a band F or G it will need to reach band D, and if your property is currently band E it should reach band C.

To apply for the grant on-line visit: 

www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/homeenergyhelp

Alternatively, residents can apply in person at the receptions desks at the Council office at Wyvern House in Winsford and at The Portal in Ellesmere Port or request an application form by calling: 0300 123 8123.

Residents who are worried about the cost of living and rise of energy bills can find some useful information from the Council and other local organisations on the Council’s website: 

www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/costofliving