BBA welcomes the announcement of £2 billion Green Homes Grant fund
In an initiative announced recently by Chancellor Rishi Sunak which kicks off in September 2020, local authorities can bid for funding under a so-called Green Homes Grant scheme to improve the energy efficiency of low-income households in their area.

Confirmation of the Grant, which will see homeowners receive subsidies of up to £10,000, came just days after a group of lobbying organisations, of which the BBA was one and included UK energy efficiency organisations – called on the government to include a ‘major’ green stimulus within its economic recovery package.

About the Grant

Under the Green Homes Grant scheme, private homeowners investing in energy-saving upgrades such as a new boiler, insulation, heat pumps, double glazing, lighting and doors etc will have two-thirds of the cost met by the government up to a maximum of £5,000.

The limit for the country’s poorest households has been set at £10,000 and these homeowners may not be required to make any contribution to their home improvements. The grant is expected to be launched in September via an online applications process. Successful applicants will receive vouchers to be redeemed through accredited partners.

“Under this Grant, £500 million funding will be delivered through local authorities, to improve the energy efficiency of low-income households. This will help reduce fuel poverty and support the installation of low carbon heating.

The Local Authority Delivery (LAD) scheme aims to raise the energy efficiency of low energy performance homes (those rated at EPC Band E, F or G), including off-gas grid homes.

The initial phase of the scheme provides £200 million funding for local authorities to upscale existing energy efficiency improvement projects.

A further £300 million will be available in the second phase of the scheme later in 2020 for Local Energy Hubs in England to procure services that support upgrading eligible homes.” Green Homes Grant Local Authority Delivery scheme

Reaction from the BBA

“We are delighted that the Chancellor has concurred with industry and included this incredibly positive grant scheme within his economic statement,” said Hardy Giesler, Chief Executive Officer of the BBA.

“The BBA, along with eight other organisations from the energy-saving sector, wrote to the Chancellor requesting that he release funding for environment-friendly domestic retrofits in order to revive the economy and stimulate green growth post COVID-19. We referred to it as a ‘street-by-street energy efficiency revolution’ to support economic recovery and protect the NHS. The Green Homes Grant does just this, as well as creating new jobs, addressing sub-standard housing/fuel poverty, and supporting the government’s net zero ambition.”

“The move also focusses attention on just how vital innovative construction products and solutions are in improving inefficient buildings and reducing carbon emissions. Green technologies will be the lifeblood of the construction industry moving forward and the BBA is committed to supporting the development and growth of this sector,” added Mr Giesler.

Signatories on the letter included:

British Board of Agrément
Solid Wall Insulation Guarantee Agency
National Insulation Association
Sustainable Energy Association
Association for Decentralised Energy
Insulated Render and Cladding Association
Insulation Assurance Authority
Insulation Manufacturers Association
Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency.