Published: Wednesday, 12 October 2022

With the return of the colder weather, residents on a low income and living in a hard to heat homes are being reminded to apply for a sustainable warmth grant.

Earlier this year, the Council secured approximately £1.9 million of Government funding to help low-income residents to make their homes warmer, greener, and reduce energy bills.

The free grant is available for both homeowners, and people living in private rented properties, and covers measures such as:

  • Insulation
  • Low carbon heating upgrades (such as heat pumps)
  • Solar panels

All work carried out as part of the grant funding must be completed by 31 March 2023. It is advised that all applications are submitted by 31 December 2022.

Eligibility

The grant funding will be beneficial for households most likely to be impacted by rising fuel bills. To be eligible for the funding, homes must:

  • Have an EPC rating of band E, F or G. (D-rated homes can also be considered)
  • Homeowners or tenants must be on a low income. For example:
    • If your annual household income is under £30,000, or under £20,000 after rent or mortgage costs
    • Your household is on means-tested benefits

The amount available is dependent on the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of the home and the current fuel source of the home. For privately-rented properties, landlords will need to contribute a minimum of one third towards the cost of the upgrades.

The funding has been allocated to the Council by via the Greater South East Net Zero Hub from central government. The funding will be administered on the Council’s behalf by City Energy.

Find out more

To find out more, and if they are eligible, residents can call City Energy on 02921 680951.

“With the current cost of living challenges, we know that rising energy prices are a concern for many people as they try to keep their homes warm this winter. This free grant funding includes larger scale measures such as solar, as well as smaller-scale insulation and ventilation upgrades. The funding will allow residents to have peace of mind that they are heating their homes, and not the planet. If you are living in a hard to heat home, or you know someone who may benefit from the funding, please get in touch as soon as possible.”

Councillor Imogen Thomas, Cabinet Member for Zero Carbon Oxford and Climate Justice, Oxford City Council

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