Free home improvements available for Worcestershire residents

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Environment

Worcestershire County Council has received funding to help lower-income households reduce their energy use and save money on heating bills.

The Warm Homes: Local Grant scheme offers a range of fully funded improvements, including insulation, upgraded heating systems, heat pumps, solar panels and energy efficient windows and doors. A free technical survey will identify which measures are most suitable for each property.

Councillor Ian Cresswell, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Communities, said: “I’m really pleased that we’re now able to offer this scheme, which will help some of the county’s most vulnerable residents make their homes warmer and reduce their energy bills.

“We are fully committed to supporting those in need across the county, and I’d strongly encourage anyone who thinks they might be eligible to find out more.”

To qualify, households must either have a gross annual household income of less than £36,000, receive means-tested benefits, or live in a pre-qualified post code area.

Eligible homes must have, or be assessed as having, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D to G. The EPC assessment is provided free of charge.

The scheme is also open to private renters who meet the income and property criteria. Landlords must agree to the works. One property per landlord can be fully funded, with a 50% contribution required for any additional homes.

Worcestershire County Council is delivering the scheme in partnership with local energy charity Act on Energy, alongside Worcester City Council, Wychavon District Council and Malvern Hills District Council.

Rachel Jones, CEO at Act on Energy, said: “We’re pleased to be able to support Worcestershire residents on their journey to a warmer, more efficient home. The cheapest energy is the energy you don’t use, so improving energy efficiency not only lowers bills but helps the environment. A warm, dry home can have a direct impact on people’s quality of life, and we’re delighted to help make that possible.”

Residents in Redditch, Bromsgrove or Wyre Forest should visit their district council’s website for details of schemes available in their area.

If you think you might qualify, or know someone who might benefit, it’s easy to apply. For more information, full eligibility criteria and to register your interest, visit the Warm Homes Local Grant pages of our website.

To speak to an energy advisor, contact Act on Energy’s free advice line on 0800 988 2881.