Leicestershire homes to go green
More than 300 homeowners in Leicestershire are eligible for energy efficiency improvements which will reduce energy costs as well as making households warmer and greener.
The new partnership between Blaby District Council, Leicestershire County Council and other district councils offers grants which help Leicestershire residents go green, reduce costs and tackle climate change.
As part of the new Green Living Leicestershire grant programme, eligible county residents will benefit from fully-funded home improvements. These include loft and wall installation, solar panels, heat pumps and new efficient windows and doors.
The Energy Saving Trust estimates that solar panels can save households and average of £280 per year, as well as saving up to 1.6 tonnes of carbon a year.
Green Living Leicestershire is funded by £3.6 million. The funding is provided by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. The funding is administered through its local delivery arm, Midlands Net Zero Hub.
Councillor Les Phillimore, Portfolio Holder for Housing, Community and Environmental Services, said: “With energy bills rising, not only will this scheme help residents with the cost of living, but it will also help Blaby District and the wider county become net zero.
“I would urge any household who thinks they might be eligible to visit the website and find out more about these essential and sustainable home improvements.”
The new scheme aims to improve the energy efficiency of owner-occupier households most in need of support, reducing energy bills and tackling climate change. It follows on from previous successful funding bids, including the Green Homes Grant and Warm Homes Fund.
The eligibility criteria include households with an income of £30,000 or less per year or in receipt of means-tested benefits, and an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F or G. It will prioritise supporting low-income households heated by mains gas, those off the gas grid, and those at high risk of fuel poverty.
For more information on the grants, or to apply, visit the county council’s Green Living Leicestershire page, or call project delivery partner YES Energy Solutions on 03309 126199, who can support residents with their applications.