New Home Upgrade Grant scheme launched

Wednesday, 18 October 2023 18:10

(L-R): Councillor Steve Evans, City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing, and Harry Gardner, Marches Energy Agency Assistant Project Manager

A scheme to help homeowners whose homes are ‘off the mains gas grid’ make their properties greener, more sustainable and save money on energy bills has been launched in the city.

City of Wolverhampton Council, in partnership with Marches Energy Agency, will deliver the Home Upgrade Grant (HUG).

The scheme is open to homeowners in the city whose properties are heated using sources other than those provided by gas boilers systems.

To be eligible for the fund, applicants need to be homeowner occupiers with an income of less than £31,000 (before tax and housing expenses). The homes will need to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating between D and G. An EPC can be provided if one is not available.

Councillor Steve Evans, Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “This is a fantastic scheme that could help many households including vulnerable residents, with their increased energy costs. The scheme will ensure that households using alternative fuels to heat their homes are not left with a higher percentage increase to their heating costs compared to those using mains gas.

“It will make energy saving improvements to the homes of people who may be struggling to pay their heating bills and will help to make homes greener and more sustainable.

“The grant could make the difference between having a warm home or not. I would encourage anyone who might be suitable for this scheme to apply and take advantage of the opportunity to upgrade the energy efficiency of their property.”

More information about eligibility, measures that are included within the scheme, and how to apply can be found at wolverhampton.gov.uk/green-grants

City of Wolverhampton Council declared a 'climate emergency' in July 2019. To support national efforts to combat climate change, City of Wolverhampton Council is committed to reducing its own carbon emissions by 95 per cent by 2028 and, following public consultation, has set the target of achieving the same results for the city by 2041, in line with the region.