Cost-of-living and keeping warm: grants available for North Yorkshire homes, plus practical energy saving tips
A government backed scheme run on behalf of local councils in Yorkshire could help low income residents in the region keep their homes warmer for less.
The North Yorkshire Home Efficiency Fund has grants available to qualifying households, offering fully-funded energy efficiency measures like insulation, air source heat pumps, solar panels and high heat retention storage heaters.
There is grant funding available to help up to 600 households.
As well as helping people stay warm this winter and address the cost of living crisis, organisers also give out vital advice on saving energy.
How does it work?
Qualifying households can apply for grants of on average £10,000 to improve the energy efficiency of their home. It is available for home owners and private renters. The scheme is fully funded for qualifying home owners, private renting tenants can expect free upgrades, but their landlords will have to contribute a minimum of one third of the costs.
How to know if I qualify?
The funding is there to help people who need it most. It’s available to residents who have a household income of £30,000 or less or who receive means tested benefits. The properties must have a low energy rating that would benefit from the North Yorkshire Home Efficiency Fund, and be suitable for the works planned.
As well as being open for people in Scarborough, this phase of the scheme also covers Ryedale and Hambleton.
Is there any catch?
People are understandably cautious about things that sound too good to be true; but this scheme is not only backed by the government, but The North Yorkshire Home Efficiency Fund is jointly run by a consortium of councils which include North Yorkshire County Council, Hambleton District Council, Ryedale District Council and Scarborough Borough Council. And YES Energy Solutions itself was established by West Yorkshire’s Kirklees Council.
Will the scheme actually deliver?
In the last financial year YES Energy Solutions transformed the energy efficiency of over 2,902 homes, cutting customer fuel bills by £36m over the lifetime of the improvements installed.
How can I keep warmer this winter?
With cold snaps expected to drop temperatures below zero for periods this winter, people need urgent help to keep their homes warm.
There is lots of information and guidance here, but you should ensure you are claiming everything you are entitled to, including:
– The Warm Home Discount, for £150 off your energy bill for qualifying households
– The Winter Fuel Payment, which is worth up to £300
– The Cold Weather Payment, which pays out £25 when the temperatures stay below zero for a week
– Cost of Living Council Tax rebate
Your energy company may also have schemes, such as the Priority Assistance Register, so speak to them directly for support. Ask about any grants or trust funds they may have to support people worried about paying their bills.
Energy saving tips
– Drop your thermostat by one degree – you will probably not notice the difference, but it helps cut your usage.
– Wash clothes at a lower temperature – a 30 or 40 degree wash keeps clean.
– Switch off the tumble dyer and air dry your laundry.
– Shop around with sites like USwitch and Compare the Market to find out which energy supplier has the best deal for you.
– Pay by direct debit … most energy providers offer a discount, as much as 10 per cent, if you opt for DD.
Where do I find out more about the North Yorkshire Home Efficiency Fund?
For lots of information and advice, and a form to apply, visit www.yesenergysolutions.co.uk/schemes/north-yorkshire-home-efficiency-fund