Mayor Dave Hodgson has announced an immediate £1m grant to help keep homes warm this winter and to assist with the living cost crisis.
The Sustainable Warmth grant is a non-repayable scheme which will be available to homes across Bedford Borough.
The scheme is funded by the government’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and is open to private tenants, private landlords and homeowners.
The scheme is designed to fund energy-efficient upgrades to residents to help reduce their energy usage and spend less on their bills.
The grant may also cover energy-saving home improvements such as insulation and ventilation upgrades, heating system controls and upgrades, and Solar PV panels and energy-efficient lighting.
Homes connected to the gas grid can apply for grants up to £10,000, while the grant will range from £10,000 to £25,000, for homes without a gas connection. The amount is dependent on the homes’ energy usage and the current fuel source that heats it.
Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson said: “We’ve seen through previous projects that Bedford Borough residents have an appetite for retrofit schemes that help make their homes more energy efficient.
“That is why we’re delighted to be bringing the Sustainable Warmth scheme to people in Bedford Borough.
“Many residents are facing huge costs this winter that may force some people into making difficult decisions.
“This scheme will give our most vulnerable residents the opportunity to stay warm and save money over the coming months.”
The grant aims to target those who will be most affected by the cost-of-living crisis.
Residents who have an annual household income under £30,000, under £20,000 after rent or mortgage costs, or whose household is on means-tested benefits, will be most suited to the scheme.
The number of children in the household or a recent loss of income will also be considered.
You can find out your eligibility of the Sustainable Warmth scheme online.
