Thousands of households have just weeks left to apply for free energy saving upgrades – check if you could benefit
THOUSANDS of households could be eligible for free energy saving upgrades, but they must hurry as there are just a few weeks left to apply.
The help is part of the home upgrade grant (HUG) – a government initiative aimed at helping low-income households in England improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
The grant provides funding for various energy efficiency measures and low-carbon heating improvements in homes that are not connected to the gas grid, often in rural or semi-rural areas.
The grant is primarily aimed at low-income households living in homes that are considered energy inefficient, particularly those with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F, or G.
The HUG can be used to cover a variety of energy efficiency and heating upgrades, including insulation, energy-efficient windows and doors, solar panels, heat pumps and low-carbon heating systems.
The level of funding varies depending on the type of measure being installed, but it generally covers a significant portion of the cost. In some cases, it may cover the full cost.
Bedford Borough homeowners without gas central heating run the danger of losing out on free energy-saving renovations that may help them heat their houses more efficiently and save money.
Residents who meet the eligibility requirements may apply for the Home Upgrade Grant (HUG2) by September 30.
If approved, they will be eligible to receive free upgrades like solar panels, insulation, low-carbon heating systems, and more.
Households must live in a designated postcode region or have a combined annual income of less than £36,000 (including benefits) in order to qualify for free improvements.
Properties must also not be heated by mains gas and, if available, have an EPC lower than a D.
Councillor Jim Weir said:
“We are committed to helping residents in Bedford Borough reduce their energy consumption and lower their bills.
“This scheme offers a fantastic opportunity to do just that. I encourage all eligible residents to take advantage of this offer before it’s too late.”
Each property will have its potential energy-saving measures determined by an initial survey.
Work is completed on a first-come, first-served basis and homeowners who would like their work to be completed before the initiative ends in March 2025 should apply by the end of September.
Bedford Borough residents can also find help and support with the cost of living and energy bills by accessing the council’s website.
What if I don’t live in Bedford?
If you are not a Bedford Borough resident, you can check if you’re eligible and apply at www.hugapply.co.uk or call delivery partners Agility Eco on 0800 107 8883.
To get further help beyond HUG, you’ll need to check with your council – as local authorities are in charge of distributing different funding.
To find your local council, use the gov.uk council finder tool.
Once you’ve found your council, there should be information on how to apply on its website.
Each council will have a different application process – so exact details on how to apply will vary depending on where you live.
What are other councils offering?
Residents in Blackpool can receive up to £300 in support from the Household Support Fund.
Those living in Bracknell Forest could be eligible for a £315 cash grant.
Low-income households in Cambridgeshire can apply for a financial award of £110 per household.
Those living in Falkirk in receipt of a council tax reduction, housing benefit, Universal Credit, income support, jobseekers allowance or pension credit can apply for up to £470 in cash support.
Middlesborough is awarding hard-up families up to £70.
What energy bill help is available?
THERE'S a number of different ways to get help paying your energy bills if you're struggling to get by.
If you fall into debt, you can always approach your supplier to see if they can put you on a repayment plan before putting you on a prepayment meter.
This involves paying off what you owe in instalments over a set period.
If your supplier offers you a repayment plan you don’t think you can afford, speak to them again to see if you can negotiate a better deal.
Several energy firms have grant schemes available to customers struggling to cover their bills.
But eligibility criteria varies depending on the supplier and the amount you can get depends on your financial circumstances.
For example, British Gas or Scottish Gas customers struggling to pay their energy bills can get grants worth up to £2,000.
British Gas also offers help via its British Gas Energy Trust and Individuals Family Fund.
You don’t need to be a British Gas customer to apply for the second fund.
EDF, E.ON, Octopus Energy and Scottish Power all offer grants to struggling customers too.
Thousands of vulnerable households are missing out on extra help and protections by not signing up to the Priority Services Register (PSR).
The service helps support vulnerable households, such as those who are elderly or ill, and some of the perks include being given advance warning of blackouts, free gas safety checks and extra support if you’re struggling.
Get in touch with your energy firm to see if you can apply.