What is the Green Homes Grant?

Set up by the UK Government, its primary aim is to allow homeowners and landlords to make energy saving improvements to their homes. These improvements include insulation, heating, double glazing, renewable energy (i.e. solar panels or heat pumps), and draught-proofing.

Recently announced by Rishi Sunak, the UK Government is implementing the scheme as a way of ‘kick-starting our economy’, cutting the energy bills for families, and protecting jobs throughout the UK. Given the long term benefits, the Green Homes Grant Scheme is a great way to lower your energy bills. It also pushes the UK closer to a more sustainable future by achieving net zero carbon emissions - a target that is to be met by 2050.

What do I receive from the scheme?

There are a variety of factors that will influence how much you will receive. Most homeowners will receive up to £5,000 in vouchers, but depending on your income, this could be up to £10,000. This means that the UK Government will pay a contribution towards making environmentally friendly upgrades to your home. The poorest households will not have to contribute anything to the overall cost as the UK Government will cover the full renovation.

You’ll be able to spend the vouchers on a wide range of energy-efficient upgrades, such as:

Low energy lighting
Energy efficient doors
Building insulation (insulation for lofts, wall, and floors)
Renewable energy (solar panels, air source heat pumps, solar thermal) 
Draught-proofing

When will I be able to apply for the grant?

The full details of the scheme are yet to be announced but the UK Government is planning on starting the green homes grant scheme by September this year. However, you’ll already be able to start the application process online and start looking for quotes.

All homeowners and landlords need to do is find a quote for the eco-friendly improvement they would like, ensure the project has been confirmed, and then the Government will pay at least two-thirds of the total amount.

What are the benefits of the Green Scheme?

When you save energy, you save money. During these difficult times, we recommend you consider making full use of the Government’s scheme. By lowering how much energy you use in your household, you’ll be able to reduce how much you’re spending each month on bills. Not only that, but it’s an excellent way to save the environment at the same time by cutting greenhouse gas emissions. According to the UK Government, improved insulation could save some households up to £600 a year, which is a clear indication of the positive impact a more energy-efficient home can have.

A useful way of finding out exactly how your home will benefit, is by using this Energy Efficiency Calculator. Simply answer a few questions about your property and the tool will provide you with effective methods you can carry out to save money. It’ll tell you how much the investment will cost and exactly how much money you’ll save per year.

Alternatively, you can find further information by discussing your options with a Green Deal Assessor. Here, you’ll be able to find out which plan is best suited for your home and any other queries you might have

For more information on green homes, have a look at our expert guides such as green ways to heat your home.