Households across Devon and Torbay that are on lower incomes are being invited to apply for free energy efficiency improvements for their homes which are thought to be worth thousands.
From this week members of the public will be able to check their eligibility and apply through the Cosy Devon website.
The energy efficient improvements are being delivered by Cosy Devon in partnership with Devon County Council (DDC), East Devon, Mid Devon, North Devon, South Hams, Teignbridge and Torridge Councils, Torbay Council, West Devon Borough Council, Exeter City Council and Plymouth City Council.
The scheme has been made possible by the partnership securing of £10 of government funding. The scheme will provide lower income households with the opportunity to improve their homes by ensuring that they are warmer, less draughty and less damp.
Improvements to these households is thought to help reduce their energy bills and lower the home’s carbon emissions.
Over 20% of all carbon emissions in Devon is thought to come from homes in the area.
When compared to the rest of the UK Devon is considered to have one of the highest levels of fuel poverty (13%) as opposed to the UK National average of 10.6%. Many of the homes across Devon need substantial investment and Cosy Devon in partnership with their partners are committed to reducing Devon’s domestic carbon footprint and lifting communities out of fuel poverty.
The is available in Devon and is specifically designed for households who have a combined income of less than £30,000 and who homes have an energy rating performance certificate of E, F and G.
Renters not excluded
Cosy Devon has gone further by including renters in the scheme and tenants of properties can apply for grants up to the cap with the landlord being expected to contribute at lest one third of the costs.
Upgrades that can be expected include underfloor and solid floor insulation; insulation to cavity, external and internal walls, lofts, double glazing, draught proofing, ventilation solar panels and heat pumps.
If you do qualify for the scheme your home will be assessed to determine which energy efficiency measures could be installed. The initiative is also backed by a quality assurance plan to ensure the works are carried out correctly and deliver the benefits and savings expected.
The options open to you will be discussed with you before a final decision is made.
Councillor Johnathan Hart, Chair of Team Devon and Lead of DDC said:
“This scheme is an example of councils across Devon working in partnership to benefit the residents of Devon to help reduce the impact of the cost-of-living crises, lift low-income households out of fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions.
“Retrofitting your home will ensure that you use less energy, as a more efficient home would lower your fuel bill. The improvements to your home will also help protect you from the health risks associated with damp and cold homes and they will reduce carbon emissions.
“I encourage Devon residents to check on the Cosy Devon website if they are eligible and apply.”
Leader of Torbay Council, Steve Darling said:
“This is an excellent way for residents to make their homes more energy efficient and help them to save money on their heating bills. Not only is this good for the planet, it’s also good for people’s pockets at a time when households are really struggling with the cost of living.”
Further details can be found on the Cosy Devon website.
