Homeowners Urged to Seize Energy Efficiency Grants in Liverpool Region
As energy costs continue to soar, homeowners across the Liverpool City Region are being urged to take advantage of a government program aimed at making homes more energy-efficient and affordable.
The Home Upgrade Grant, now in its second phase known as HUG2, is set to provide crucial upgrades to households, significantly reducing energy bills and enhancing living conditions through substantial financial support for energy efficiency improvements and low-carbon heating installations.
The initiative, delivered by Ecogee on behalf of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, primarily targets properties not connected to the gas grid, particularly those with lower energy performance ratings between D and G.
“The first phase of the HUG initiative transformed the lives of hundreds of families in the region,” said Brendan Helm, Managing Director of Ecogee, the company overseeing the program’s implementation. “Participants have reported dramatic cuts in their energy bills and a noticeable increase in home comfort, and the scheme’s success has demonstrated the vital role it plays in promoting energy conservation and reducing the region’s carbon footprint.”
To qualify for HUG2, households must meet several criteria. Eligible homes should not use gas for main heating, must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating between D and G, and fall within an annual income threshold of £36,000 or be located in specific postcodes. Both owner-occupied and privately rented homes, with landlord contribution, are eligible.
The application process is designed to be simple and straightforward, according to Mr. Helm. “Prospective applicants need only to fill out a quick registration form available on our Ecogee website,” he said. “Once the form is submitted, a team member will get in touch to arrange a detailed home survey, ensuring that the right upgrades are provided for maximum benefit.”
The upgrades available through the program are diverse, ranging from insulation and energy-efficient windows to state-of-the-art heating systems, all designed to make homes more eco-friendly and cost-effective.
“The Home Upgrade Grant not only helps households save on energy bills but also contributes to wider environmental goals by reducing carbon emissions,” Mr. Helm added.
The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, which oversees the program’s implementation, has already secured £105 million in government funding to support low-income households by retrofitting around 10,000 properties with energy-efficient measures, including external wall insulation, roof insulation, heat pumps, and solar panels.
“So far, nearly 6,000 properties have been completed,” said Cllr Anthony Burns, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Cabinet Member for Net Zero. “Under these schemes, we are working closely with housing associations and local authorities to carefully identify and select eligible households to ensure that measures are installed where they make the greatest impact.”
As the summer heat continues, officials and program administrators are encouraging homeowners to act and prepare their homes for a more energy-efficient and cost-effective future through the HUG2 initiative.
“HUG2 is a fantastic opportunity for households to enhance their energy efficiency at no cost,” Mr. Helm said. “It’s about improving quality of life and tackling energy poverty, especially in these challenging times. We encourage everyone who thinks they might be eligible to apply and take advantage of this excellent initiative.”
