NEIGHBOURS in Shirley are saving money on their fuel bills and cutting their emissions after becoming the first in Solihull to benefit from a scheme offering free energy efficiency upgrades to their home.
Solihull Council has helped two homeowners in Collister Close boost their properties with upgrades including innovative air source heat pumps, photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, and radiators.
The measures – funded through the Government’s Home Upgrade Grant Phase 2 (HUG2) – will help lower their fuel bills, reduce their carbon footprint, and make their homes more comfortable. The energy performance certificate (EPC) of both homes has also greatly improved, increasing from E to C.
Following completion of the first properties under HUG2, the Council is now targeting improvements for dozens of homes in Dorridge, with work on the scheme already well underway.
And even more residents will now be able to access free upgrades to their homes after the Council was successful in securing a further £1.2 million of funding from the Government.
HUG2 is targeted at homeowner occupiers who have off-gas properties, have a combined annual income of under £36,000, and an energy performance certificate (EPC) between D and G.
Those who qualify for the scheme will be offered a home survey to identify what improvements are suitable for their home and could benefit from a range of solutions including insulation, solar panels, air source heat pumps, and more.
Air source heat pumps are an energy-efficient and cost-effective solution to heat and cool homes and provide hot water. They extract heat from outdoor temperatures as low as -15°C, meaning they work all-year round.
Solihull Council’s cabinet member for climate change and planning, Coun Andy Mackiewicz, said: “Recent figures estimate more than 18 million homes in the UK have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of D or below, accounting for more than half of the housing stock.
“Driving EPC standards by improving the energy efficiency of our homes not only helps residents save money on their fuel bills and live in more comfortable homes, but also tackles the climate emergency by reducing carbon emissions – something we are steadfast in our commitment to as a Council.”
Coun Karen Grinsell, deputy leader of Solihull Council, said: “It’s great to hear from Shirley residents on how HUG2 is making a difference to them and, thanks to the new funding secured, we are looking forward to helping more people take advantage of the free home upgrades available.”
