10 Mar Essex resident saves £10 a month on energy bills thanks to fully funded scheme
Energy prices might be rising, but one Essex resident is finding that his energy bills are decreasing. Following the installation of external wall insulation which was available under the Green Homes Grant Local Authority Delivery scheme, his bills have fallen.
John Davies, a retired hotel officer and widower, took advantage of the grant scheme to improve the heat retention in his 1930’s-built home free of charge. He is now saving over £10 a month on energy bills as a result. He’s now encouraging more Essex residents to apply for the grant to reap the same benefits.
It comes at a time when the energy price cap is due to increase as a result of a record rise in global gas prices over the last six months, with wholesale prices quadrupling in the last year.
The grant is aimed at homeowners on a low income and is designed to reduce people’s heating bills, increase energy efficiency and cut carbon emissions. The current scheme is open for applications until 31 March 2022.
Following his application in winter last year the 73-year-old was visited by a surveyor from Essex County Council’s contractor for the scheme who assessed the energy rating of his property and determined that improvements could be made to his external wall insulation.
Speaking about the visit, John said: “After letting me know that I was eligible for the scheme, the surveyor explained to me that, because the upper floor of my home had no cavity, external wall insulation could be installed to add an extra layer of protection against the elements.”
A minimally disruptive procedure, external wall insulation comprises of an insulation layer fixed to the existing exterior wall of a property, which is finished with a protective render or decorative finish.
Once works were arranged, the insulation took just over five days to be installed on Mr Davies’ property. John added: “When the contractors arrived, they were polite, hard-working and efficient, and got the job done very quickly. The experience I had throughout the installation was perfect – I couldn’t fault it!
“It’s no secret that energy prices are soaring at the moment and so I’m delighted to be seeing a decrease in my energy bills each month since having the insulation fitted. It’s not all about the money though, I’ve really seen the benefit over the winter period with my home feeling a lot warmer – the reduction in energy bills is just a nice added bonus.”
After having his own success with the free funding, Mr Davies is now encouraging others to take up the opportunity to apply for the Green Homes Grant Local Authority Delivery scheme.
He added: “If you’re worried about the increase in energy prices at the moment, I highly recommend this scheme to you. Don’t lose out on this amazing opportunity which is not only helping to keep my energy bills down but keeping my home warm too.”
Cllr Peter Schwier, Climate Czar at Essex County Council, said: “We are thrilled to hear that the Green Homes scheme has proven to be a success for many of our Essex residents, including Mr Davies. Not only has he seen a drop in his energy bills, but he has also been able to futureproof his home to make it warmer during cold winters and play his part in helping to tackle climate change. I hope Mr. Davies’ story will encourage more homeowners to check their eligibility and reap the myriad of benefits this funding can bring.”
Homeowners with a combined household income below £30,000 and an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F or G are invited to check eligibility for the free local authority grant of up to £10,000* to install energy efficiency measures on their homes. Homeowners with a combined income above £30,000 may still be eligible if someone in the household receives Universal Credit, Jobseeker Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, Armed Forces Independence Payment or other income, health or disability benefit.
To apply for energy efficiency improvements to your home, visit www.essex.gov.uk/energy-funding
