Residents who have an annual base income of less than £36,000 could be missing out on free energy-saving updates to heat their homes and save money.
Those eligible have until the end of September to register for the Home Upgrade Grant (HUG) to ensure any approved works are installed before the scheme ends, which could include insulation, solar panels, low carbon heating systems and more.
The retrofitting scheme is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and managed by the Greater South East Net Zero Hub (GSENZH) and West Northamptonshire Council (WNC).
Cllr Rebecca Breese, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste said: “This crucial funding gives low-income households the opportunity to make their homes more energy-efficient, helping them cut costs and tackle fuel poverty. I would urge people to check if they are eligible and apply ahead of the end of September to save on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.”
To be eligible for free upgrades, households must have a combined annual income of less than £36,000 (including benefits) or live in a specific postcode area, their properties must not be heated through mains gas, and they should be considered hard-to-heat homes.
Graeme Heron, Energy Efficiency Programme Lead at GSENZH, added: “Retrofitting homes is an essential step in decarbonising our communities.
“The free measures available for eligible homes will help keep residents warm, healthy and cut their bills. Please check your eligibility and apply before it’s too late.”
An initial survey will determine which energy-saving measures could be suitable for each property.
Work is completed on a first-come, first-served basis and homeowners should apply by the end of September to allow for works to be completed before the end of the scheme in March 2025.
Homeowners may be able to register their interest after September but doing so as soon as possible is the best way to ensure there is enough time to receive upgrades before the end of the scheme.
To check if you’re eligible and apply, visit www.hugapply.co.uk or call delivery partners Agility Eco on 0800 107 8883.
Contact Information
West Northamptonshire Council Communications Team
[email protected]