New scheme will help households cut their energy bills

A new partnership between Leicestershire County Council and the district councils will pay for measures which will help Leicestershire residents go green, reduce costs and tackle climate change.

As part of the new Green Living Leicestershire programme, eligible county residents will benefit from fully-funded home improvements including loft and wall insulation, solar panels, heat pumps and new efficient windows and doors.

The Energy Saving Trust estimates that solar panels can save households an average of £280 per year, as well as saving up to 1.6 tonnes of carbon emissions a year.

Green Living Leicestershire is funded by £3.6 million provided by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, and administered through Midlands Net Zero Hub.

Councillor Jonathan Bateman, Harborough District Council's cabinet member for climate change and warm homes, said: “This is an excellent partnership grant scheme that supports the council’s fight against climate change, and which will help eligible residents to reduce their household energy costs whilst making their homes warmer and more sustainable.”

The new scheme aims to improve the energy efficiency of owner-occupier households most in need of support, reduce energy bills and tackle climate change. It follows on from previous successful funding bids, including the Green Homes Grant and Warm Homes Fund.

The eligibility criteria include households with an income of £30,000 or less per year or in receipt of means-tested benefits, and an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F or G. It will prioritise supporting low-income households heated by mains gas, those off the gas grid, and those at high risk of fuel poverty.

For more information on the grants, or to apply, visit the county council’s Green Living Leicestershire page, or call project delivery partner YES Energy Solutions on 03309 126199, who can support residents with their applications.

The Green Living Leicestershire project forms part of the council’s wider work to tackle climate change, including fresh proposals to make Leicestershire a net zero carbon county by 2045.

These proposals are now being consulted on. To take part in the consultation or to find out more about the council’s net zero ambitions, visit the net zero webpage.

 

Notes to editors:

The Green Living Leicestershire scheme is delivered in partnership by Leicestershire County Council, Blaby District Council, Charnwood Borough Council, Harborough District Council, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, Melton Borough Council and North West Leicestershire District Council.