Posted on Friday 7th July 2023
Simon Tagg
Staffordshire residents will be able to benefit from support to improve home energy efficiency thanks to a multi-million-pound funding boost.
The newly launched Home Upgrade Grant aims to provide households not connected to the gas mains with free air source heat pumps insulation and solar panels installation.
Staffordshire County Council is managing the scheme, in collaboration with Community Home Solutions, which will be working with residents to deliver the improvements.
The scheme is open to people living with an annual household income below £31,000. Households where someone claims a means-tested benefit may also be eligible. Homes must be off gas to be eligible for this scheme. Both homeowners and tenants are encouraged to apply.
Simon Tagg, Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure and Climate Change at Staffordshire County Council said:
We are delighted to secure £10.5 million to support our residents in improving the energy efficiency of their homes.
The Home Upgrade Grant is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and reducing energy consumption. By providing free air source heat pumps, solar panels and insulation, we aim to create a greener, more comfortable living environment for our communities."
The Home Upgrade Grant is an extension of the Staffordshire Warmer Homes scheme, which has already benefited over 750 households.
Kevin Leese from Featherstone was supported through the Staffordshire Warmer Homes scheme in a previous round of funding, to get an Air Source Heat Pump installed in his home. He said:
Everyone is worried about the cost-of-living crisis. It is something we all worry about, so having the heat pump installed gives me a great deal of comfort.”
Annette Burrows from Burntwood was also supported in a previous round of funding and had free solar panels installed in her home. She said:
It has put my mind at rest having the solar panels, especially with how things are turning out with the cost of living. I am quite reassured that my bills won’t be as high.”
With a funding allocation of £10.5 million over a two-year period, the Home Upgrade Grant will end in March 2025. Due to the limited availability of funds, applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Anyone who is interested is urged to apply promptly by visiting www.staffordshire.gov.uk/warmerhomes to determine their eligibility.
People can see how people benefit from the scheme here.