In the UK, there are several energy improvement grants and schemes available to homeowners to help make their homes more energy-efficient. Here are some of the key ones:
1. Green Homes Grant: The Green Homes Grant scheme, launched by the UK government, provides vouchers to homeowners in England to cover up to two-thirds of the cost of eligible energy efficiency improvements, up to a maximum of £5,000 per household. Low-income households may be eligible for vouchers covering the full cost of improvements, up to £10,000.
2. Energy Company Obligation (ECO): The Energy Company Obligation is a government scheme that obliges larger energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in homes, particularly those of low-income households and vulnerable residents. Qualifying improvements may include insulation, heating upgrades, and renewable energy installations.
3. Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI): The Renewable Heat Incentive is a government scheme that provides financial incentives to homeowners who install renewable heating systems, such as heat pumps, biomass boilers, and solar thermal panels. Participants receive quarterly payments over seven years based on the amount of renewable heat generated.
4. Local Authority Grants: Some local authorities offer grants or financial assistance for energy efficiency improvements to homeowners within their jurisdiction. These grants may vary in availability and eligibility criteria, so homeowners should check with their local council for details.
5. Warm Home Discount Scheme: The Warm Home Discount Scheme provides a one-off discount on electricity bills to eligible low-income households. The discount is usually applied between September and March and is provided by participating energy suppliers.
6. Energy Efficiency Loans: Some local authorities offer low-interest loans or financing schemes to help homeowners fund energy efficiency improvements to their homes. These loans may be used to cover the cost of insulation, heating upgrades, and other energy-saving measures.
7. Scottish Government Grants: In Scotland, the Home Energy Efficiency Programmes for Scotland (HEEPS) offer various grants and schemes to help homeowners improve the energy efficiency of their homes. These may include insulation grants, heating system upgrades, and support for renewable energy installations.
These are just some of the energy improvement grants and schemes available for UK homes. Eligibility criteria, funding amounts, and application procedures may vary between schemes, so homeowners should research their options and check eligibility requirements before applying.
