Green Meanies

Is the government’s Green Homes Grant as generous as it first appears?

The UK government have just announced an extension to their Green Homes Grant, the scheme introduced in October 2020 to offer homeowners in England (including landlords) up to £5,000 in vouchers in order to cover the cost of energy improvements, with the only stipulation being that individuals would have to cover the cost of 20 per cent of the work done.

The end date of the scheme is now March 31, 2022.

As ever with these types of projects, there is a small amount of red tape to negotiate. Firstly, note a stipulation for qualifying grants to be paid on secondary improvements, only after primary improvements have been made. The scheme is designed to predominantly push insulation upgrades (solid wall, cavity wall, underfloor, loft or roof etc), and low-carbon measures (such as hybrid heat pumps, solar thermal systems and more).

Secondary improvements include draughtproofing, triple glazing, energy efficient doors, appliance and hot water tank thermostats, and smart-heating controls. The good news for homeowners is that almost all qualify, even if they are landlords and even where newbuilds are concerned. There is even an extended grant of up to £10,000, with no 20 per cent contribution required, for vulnerable groups.

While the Green Homes Grant is only for homeowners with property in England, there are similar schemes for those in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. For more

information, search Green Homes Grant on gov.uk.

Solutions on page 30.

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