Last chance for free energy-saving upgrades for Ashford homeowners

Homeowners in the borough of Ashford are at risk of missing out on free energy-saving upgrades to heat their homes and save money.

Eligible residents have until the end of September to apply for phase two of the Home Upgrade Grant (HUG2), where they could receive free measures such as insulation, solar panels, low carbon heating systems and more.

The retrofitting scheme is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and managed by the Greater South East Net Zero Hub (GSENZH) and Ashford Borough Council.

Cllr Steve Campkin, portfolio holder for climate, environment and sustainability, said: “There are still many eligible homeowners in the Ashford borough who could miss out on these free energy saving upgrades. Not only will the measures help heat homes while cutting their carbon footprint, but can also help reduce energy bills. I urge residents to check they are eligible and apply.”

To be eligible for free upgrades, households must have a combined annual income of less than £36,000 (including benefits) or live in a specific postcode area, their properties must not be heated through mains gas, and they should be considered hard-to-heat homes.

Graeme Heron, Energy Efficiency Programme Lead at GSENZH, said: “Retrofitting homes is an essential step in decarbonising our communities. The free measures available for eligible homes will help keep residents warm and cut bills. Check your eligibility and apply before it’s too late.”

An assessment will be carried out on eligible properties to determine which energy saving measures could be undertaken. Work is completed on a first-come, first-served basis and homeowners should apply by the end of September to allow for works to be completed before the end of the scheme in March 2025.

To check if you’re eligible and apply, visit the Home Upgrade Grant website or call delivery partner Eon on 0333 202 4820.