Wiltshire homeowners urged to apply to 'retrofit' cash

The Council's got funding to support 86 households with energy efficiency

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 16th Sep 2024

Homeowners in Wiltshire, who could be eligible for help to 'retrofit' energy efficiency measures in their homes, are encouraged to apply for support.

The Council's got funding to help up to 86 households, but the closing date for applications is September 27th. https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/hug

The support is for owner-occupied and privately rented homes, that are not connected to mains gas and have an energy performance certificate (EPC) rating of band D-G, as well as being subject to household income levels.

Some of the changes to retrofit a property could include:

• Energy efficiency measures such as wall and loft insulation.

• Low-carbon heating options such as heat pumps.

• Renewable technologies such as solar panels.

• Smart measures such as smart heating controls.

Over recent weeks Wiltshire Council, and specialist contractors EDF and 0800 Repair have been working together to identify potentially eligible households to participate in the scheme.

The closing date's been set up to ensure works can be carried out by the funding deadline and to make use of the cash available.

Cllr Dominic Muns, Cabinet Member for Waste and Environment, said:

“We don’t want people to miss out on this opportunity so we have been working hard with our partners, EDF and 0800 Repair, to identify households we think might be eligible.

“This is a government funded scheme that stipulates that properties need to be identified and work complete by the end of the current financial year so we’re keen for anyone who might be eligible to visit our website or get in touch as soon as possible to find out more.

“With confirmation that energy prices are set to rise again, this project is a unique opportunity to help those on low incomes in off-gas domestic properties access energy efficiency measures free of charge which will likely save them money in the long run and also contribute towards the county’s climate goals.

“I encourage anyone who may be eligible for this funding to register their interest to find out more about the retrofits EDF Energy can make to their household free of charge. This is also a fantastic opportunity for landlords who own four or fewer rental properties and have low-income tenants, as these landlords only need to pay one third of the total cost of works that will increase the energy efficiency and longevity of their properties."

Dan Hopcroft, EDF Zero Carbon Homes Director, said:

“The scheme is moving forward at pace, and we’re keen for as many eligible people as possible to benefit from a home that is more energy efficient and affordable to keep warm, so please make sure you get your application in before the closing date of 27th September.”

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.