Energy support in Manchester: eight resources and how to access them
The cost-of-living crisis and rising energy costs mean even more of us are looking for ways to save money and energy this winter. Finding the right support for you can be a tricky task, so we’ve pulled together some resources for Manchester residents who’re looking to save money and warm up their homes, while saving energy and helping the planet.
The boiler upgrade scheme provides grants of up to £7500 to households for boiler upgrades. This is the best value grant covering upfront costs for upgrading heating systems seen for the past few years and has recently been increased by £2000. Upgrading an old boiler could save a typical household up to 23% on their annual gas bills and minimise the amount of energy lost through inefficiency.
Criteria:
You must own the property you’re applying for (including if it’s a business, a second home, or a property you rent out to tenants)
Be replacing fossil fuel heating systems (such as oil, gas or electric)
How: The value of the grant will be taken off the amount you pay for installation with a listed installer.
This government scheme means you may get help from your energy company with the cost of insulation work, replacing/repairing your boiler - or other upgrades to your heating.
Criteria:
Claim certain benefits and live in private housing (for example you own your home or rent from a private landlord)
Live in social housing
How to apply: Contact your energy company to check if you’re eligible and the payment from the grant will go to them.
Through this service an Energy Efficiency Officer can complete a Home Energy Efficiency Assessment for free. The service can then provide free advice, a free hot water bottle and energy efficient LED bulbs.
Criteria:
Manchester Care and Repair services have the following criteria which can be found here.
How to apply: Apply for the relevant service through Manchester Care and Repair and services will be organised through them.
Great British Insulation Scheme
This scheme provides free or discounted insulation which will make heating your home cheaper and reduce your energy bills.
Criteria:
Your home has an energy performance certificate (EPC) of D to G - check your EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is in date, as they expire after ten years.
Your home is in Council Tax bands A-D in England
How to apply: Apply through here and if approved the contractor will receive the money
Through Manchester Council, Manchester Care and Repair distribute loans of up to £10,000 (administration charges apply) to support with energy efficiency and heating system upgrades. The loans are typically paid back within a maximum of seven years.
Criteria:
Own the property you’re applying for
Private landlords are considered if they are registered with the City Council’s RentWise Bond Scheme or similar
How to apply: Through Manchester Care and Repair who administer the scheme on behalf of the council.
This scheme provides a one-off discount applied to your electricity bill until 31 March 2024. If you are eligible you should receive a letter by January 2024. Previously some people had to apply to this scheme but now this should be automatic for everyone eligible in England.
Criteria:
If you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit
If you are on a low income and have high energy costs
How to apply: If you do not get a letter and you think you’re eligible, you must contact the Warm Home Discount Scheme before 29 February 2024.
If you qualify for this service, you can have a free air source heat pump installed in your home. This is a big win as air source heat pumps typically cost around £14,000. They gather heat energy from their surroundings and are three times as efficient as a gas boiler.
Criteria:
Based on benefits and/or income
More information Here
How to apply: Installation through successful application here.
This is a one-stop-shop service that provides low cost retrofit for any homeowner that wants to reduce the fuel consumption of their home. Loans are also available for a period of 10 years at 5.5% APR.
Criteria:
Homeowner
How to apply: The ways to upgrade your home are outlined here.
Many of us are struggling financially with the increases in food and energy bills, financial help aside from energy is available from Manchester Council. Call 0800 023 2692 or use the online form here for free advice on the following:
Benefits and help with your rent
Advice about debt and paying bills
Food support – help to find community food provision near you
Help to get online - support to access the internet, laptops, phones and data.
