In 2006, the UK government announced their energy review that would target homes and businesses in an effort to reduce carbon emissions.

The target was to reduce emissions by 60% by 2050, with the following steps in mind:

  • Ensure a reliable energy supply
  • Promote competitive markets in the UK and beyond
  • Provide adequate and affordable heating for every home in the UK
  • Help homeowners to understand and reduce their energy bills
  • Increase the amount of electricity generated by renewable sources to 20%. This was a five-fold increase from the current levels.

To help improve home energy efficiency, the government has put funds forward for households on low income. These homes can claim benefits and may even be eligible for 100% grants for insulation, lighting and more efficient heating.

If you are on one of the following you could receive help to improve your home’s energy efficiency:

  • Income Support
  • Housing Benefit
  • Council Tax Benefit
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Attendance Allowance
  • Disability Living Allowance
  • War Disablement Pension (which must include mobility supplement or constant attendance allowance)
  • Disablement Pension Credit (which must include constant attendance allowance)
  • Child Tax Credit (with a household income of less than £14,600)
  • Working Tax Credit (with a household income of less than £14,600)
  • State Pension Credit

People over 70 can also have loft and wall cavity insulation installed for free.

Interest free energy loans

There are unsecured interest free loans available for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). These can be up to £100,000 and are supplied through the Carbon Trust when you replace or upgrade existing equipment.

However, the new installation must be more energy efficient. This grant covers projects such as lighting, boilers and insulation.

For more information or to fill in the online application form, visit the Carbon Trust website.