Grants

A number of grants and offers are available to householders to encourage them to have energy-saving measures in their homes.

Most of these grants and offers are available from three sources:

1) Government grants

The UK Government funds schemes across the UK, providing grants of up to £2,700 to households on certain benefits to improve their heating and energy efficiency (please note that grant levels vary).

These grants provide insulation and heating improvements depending on need and the type of property, including insulation, central heating, draught proofing, modernising fireplaces and installation of timer controls.

England: Warm Front

Northern Ireland: Warm Homes

Scotland: Warm Deal

Wales: Home Energy Efficiency Scheme

2) Energy suppliers

The Government's Energy Efficiency Commitment (EEC) means the larger energy suppliers are obliged to help achieve targets for improving domestic energy efficiency.

Suppliers must encourage and assist their customers to make energy savings, through installing measures such as cavity wall and loft insulation and energy efficient boilers, appliances and light bulbs.

As well as cutting greenhouse gas emissions, the EEC is also designed to cut fuel poverty: at least 50 per cent of the energy savings must be focused on low-income households.

Offers can be taken up from any of the energy companies, regardless of who supplies your gas and electricity. Ofgem, the energy regulator, is responsible for monitoring implementation of the EEC.

3) Local authorities

Local authorities (councils) provide grants and offers for local residents to install energy efficiency measures in their home.

Depending on the individual authority, these may include discounts on cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, hot water tank jacketing and energy efficient windows.

Authorities may also offer advice on energy efficiency measures, such as low energy light bulbs.

Contact your local authority for more information.

For an up-to-date list of grants and offers available in your area click here.

You can also call 0800 512 012 to speak to your local advice centre.