The Great British Insulation Scheme could help thousands of families reduce their gas and electricity costs this year as costs on tax, broadband and more is set to rise from today
April is set to hit Brits in the pocket as essentials like Council Tax, broadband, mobile phones, and streaming services are all due for a price hike. To add insult to injury, energy bills are also expected to surge by 6.4% from April 1, as Ofgem raises its price cap for the third quarter in a row.
These looming changes mean that annual costs for those on the price cap will jump from £1,738 to £1,849, marking a yearly increase of £111 (£9.25 per month), on average.
However, there might be a silver lining courtesy of a scheme cooked up by the previous government, which could help thousands shave off their gas and electricity costs throughout the year, reports the Daily Record.
The Great British Insulation Scheme could see low-income households save up to £400 annually on their energy bills through new energy efficiency improvements. Families in lower Council Tax bands living in less energy-efficient homes could be eligible for vital upgrades – such as roof, loft or cavity wall insulation – which can help slash their yearly energy bill by an average of between £300 to £400.
Those who qualify for help under the Great British Insulation Scheme include families in Council Tax bands A-D in England and A-E in Scotland and Wales, with an Energy Performance Certificate rating of D or below.
Full details on eligibility and a rundown of the home improvement services on offer can be found on the online portal at GOV.UK. Assistance might be up for grabs if you’re a homeowner, landlord or tenant (renting privately or from a housing association).
It is advised that tenants speak to their landlords before applying, as they’ll need to give the green light before any insulation gets fitted.
Insulation options available under the scheme
You could get support to install
How to check online if you’re in line for support
Before you start off the process online at GOV.UK, you’ll need:
- the total household income
- your email address or phone number so your energy supplier can contact you if you’re eligible
- the type of benefits anyone living in the property receives – you may be eligible for additional support
After you apply
If you make the cut for support, your energy supplier will reach out to arrange a once-over of the property. You’ll also be notified if you need to pay anything after the assessment.
If you’re not on board with the assessment or the costs tied to it, you can opt out of the scheme.
If the online service is inaccessible to you
Should you find yourself unable to make use of the online checker tool, there’s an alternative. You can ring up the Great British Insulation Scheme helpline on 0800 098 7950 and chat with an adviser.
The lines are open from Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm (excluding public holidays), and Saturday, 9am to 12pm.
Comprehensive details about the Great British Insulation Scheme can be found online at GOV.UK.