Last chance for free energy upgrade
Published
Wednesday 18 September, 2024
Updated
Tuesday 1 October, 2024
Homeowners in Swale are at risk of missing out on free energy-saving upgrades to heat their homes and save money.
Eligible residents are running out of time to apply for phase two of the Home Upgrade Grant (HUG2), where they could receive free measures such as insulation, solar panels, low carbon heating systems and more.
99 upgrades have been installed in homes across Kent including more than 40 solar PV installations, with more expected each week.
To be eligible for HUG 2 all three of the following requirements need to be met:
- be living in a home where mains gas is not used for heating e.g. using oil, solid fuel or electric systems
- have a combined household income of less than £36,000 per year including benefits
- be living in homes that are energy inefficient e.g. would receive an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G
Local contractor, E.on, will guide customers through the application journey and work out the energy efficiency of their home by determining the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating.
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 Swale Borough Council.
Rich Lehmann, chair of the Environment and Climate Change Committee, said:
“We don’t want people on lower incomes to miss out on this amazing opportunity, it can help reduce your energy bills and keep you warm over winter - completely for free.
“We are seeing some lovely warm weather at the moment, but these energy improvements will help to set residents up for the colder months.
“Checking if you are eligible is as simple as giving local contractor E.on a call, who will walk you through the application process and help you determine your homes energy efficiency.
“Please don’t miss out on this opportunity as there is no harm in checking if you are eligible and, if you are, the improvements can have a real, positive impact on your life.”
Graeme Heron, Energy Efficiency Programme Lead at Greater South East Net Zero Hub, 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 soon to allow for works to be completed before the end of the scheme in March 2025.
If you believe you are eligible you can apply on the HUG website or on Eon's website or by calling 0333 202 4820.
