Local authorities across the UK are urging households to take advantage of free cavity wall and loft insulation initiatives before time runs out.
On Tuesday, Insulate Hampshire gave away just under 300 rolls of insulation to people living in Hampshire. The firm was supported by Hampshire County Council and Havant Transition Network, which aims to improve environmental conditions for residents of Havant.
Jacquie Penrose, of Havant Transition Network, commented: “It was an awfully big pile of rolls to start with, but at the end of the day it was all gone. Insulation cuts down on heating bills and that, in effect, is good for the environment because it reduces our consumption of energy”.
After likening insulation to a giant duvet for the home, Ms Penrose said: “There are a lot of different offers available through Insulate Hampshire, including cavity wall insulation.”
In South Hams, Devon, many residents are entitled to free insulation. Income is not taken into account, so most households in the area should be able to improve domestic energy conservation for as long as supplies last.
South Hams District Council is behind the initiative, which is also backed by Enact Energy. Unfortunately, the scheme is not available for social housing tenants and free insulation is only provided subject to an assessment of the property.
Councillor Jonathan Hawkins said: “With everyone on a tight budget, I am hoping this partnership scheme will help people save money and stay warm. Installing insulation is one of the quickest and easiest ways to keep down the cost of your fuel bills, so this scheme could make a huge difference to households across South Hams”.
Similar initiatives are in operation throughout England and Wales. Calderdale Council in Hebden Bridge has invited residents to apply for free cavity wall and loft insulation before its scheme ends next month. Leicester City Council, meanwhile, has reminded households that its Hot Lofts project will close in December, while Lichfield District Council is currently promoting a similar scheme.
The Energy Saving Trust estimates that households could reduce their central heating bills by around £310 a year if lofts and cavity walls are adequately insulated.
