Published on 9 July 2020
Homeowners in England can claim vouchers worth up to £10,000 to make their homes more energy efficient.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer – Rishi Sunak – announced the new Green Homes Grant scheme yesterday (8th July 2020) as part of his economic statement. He outlined plans which will see the Government put aside £2 billion for green home upgrades.
There’s still lots of questions to be answered but so far we know that:
- The Treasury says its aim is for over 600,000 households in England to be upgraded.
- Eligible homeowners will be able to use the vouchers to pay for energy-efficiency improvements such as installing loft, floor and wall insulation or double-glazing.
- These green improvements could save families hundreds of pounds a year on their energy bills.
- The Government will pay for at least two-thirds of the cost of the work – the Treasury says a homeowner installing cavity wall and floor insulation costing £4,000 would only pay about £1,320, with the Government contributing the remaining £2,680.
- Those on the lowest incomes could see the Government cover 100% of the costs, worth up to £10,000.
- The scheme is designed with the aim of lowering energy bills, while at the same time creating more jobs for the UK economy, touted as “green jobs”.
To help you understand how the scheme works, and what it’s all about we’ve answered your questions…
How much can I claim from Green Home Grant scheme?
Under the scheme, the UK Government will provide homeowners and landlords with vouchers to make energy-efficiency improvements. Most homeowners and landlords will receive vouchers up to £5,000, whilst those on low incomes will receive up to £10,000.
Which home improvements are covered?
The Green Homes Grant will cover a variety of energy saving home improvements. Whilst a comprehensive list has not been released yet, it has been confirmed that these improvements will be covered:
- Loft, floor and wall insulation
- Double-glazing (windows, doors, etc)
Am I eligible for the Green Homes Grant Scheme?
When the scheme opens in Sept the list of energy efficiency measures that the voucher can be used for will be available.
I already have insulation and double-glazing, can I still apply for the grant?
The Government have not yet released a comprehensive list of which energy saving measures are included, but it may cover improving existing measures e.g. upgrading windows from rating B to A.
How do I apply for a Green Homes Grant?
Applications for the Green Homes Grant Scheme will open in September and will be done online. You will need to check that your proposed work is included on the list of energy efficiency measures that are covered, obtain a quote from an accredited supplier, get the quote approved and then the voucher will be issued.
