GO GREEN, SAVE CASH

Homeowners can now apply for £5,000 towards new loft insulation, double-glazing and other planet-protecting, money-saving measures

Go green, save cash

More than 40% of the borough’s carbon emissions come from our homes. That’s because they’re huge energy hogs, with everything from heating to powering appliances racking up gas and electric bills.

Brent residents are paying out more money every month as a result of poor insulation, draughty windows and outdated heating controls. But by addressing these problems, households could save up to £600 a year on energy bills.

Under the nationwide Green Homes

Grant scheme, homeowners and landlords can apply for vouchers towards energy efficient and low-carbon heating improvements, like electric heat pumps. Successful applicants could get up to two-thirds of the cost back in vouchers, with a maximum of £5,000 available.

Extra help is available for people on low incomes or receiving certain benefits. If eligible, you can apply for a grant covering all works, up to £10,000.

“Improving the energy efficiency of our homes is one of the biggest things we can do to help cut our carbon footprint,” says Cllr Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Environment. “As with lots of environmental choices, the great news is that by installing these measures you can also save money off your monthly bills.”

TAKE CLIMATE ACTION The consultation on Brent’s Climate Emergency Strategy may have closed for comments, but there are plenty more ways to get involved and take climate action locally. Visit brent.gov.uk/ climateemergency for green inspiration, information and support. The final Strategy is due for publication in in the next few months.

HOW DO I APPLY?

1. See if you are eligible for a voucher at www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk 2. Check what improvements may be suitable for your home 3. Choose the improvements you would like and an estimate of the cost 4. Find registered installers to get quotes to carry out the work at www.trustmark.org.uk. It’s important to make sure your installer is

TrustMark registered. 5. Apply at www.gov.uk/greenhomesgrant

SOLAR TOGETHER!

If you are keen to explore how solar panels could help make your home more environmentally friendly and cheaper to run, Solar Together, a group-buying scheme backed by the Mayor of London, is currently open for applications. www.brent.gov.uk/solartogether