02 August 2012
The Home Energy Scheme has been extended to include Islanders who can claim the Food Costs Bonus.
Eligibility for the 100% grant-funded scheme, which is administered by the Energy Efficiency Service, has been extended to ensure that as many Islanders as possible are able to insulate their homes to reduce their energy bills this coming winter.
The Planning and Environment Minister Deputy Rob Duhamel said “Given the threat of potentially rising energy prices, acting now could help people reduce their exposure to higher bills. If you struggle to keep your home warm in winter, or know someone in this situation, contact the Energy Efficiency Service or encourage them to do so. Even where people do not meet the criteria for a grant, free advice is available from the department’s qualified energy advisors.”
The Energy Efficiency Service is a free service offered as part of the States of Jersey’s commitment to reduce energy use. Eligible households qualify for a range of measures from loft insulation and cavity wall insulation to draught proofing and low energy light bulbs. Privately owned properties with a fixed heating system (gas or oil central heating boilers or electric storage radiators) that are over 10 years old, will also be offered a heating system review. The turn-key service that employs a number of approved local contractors is primarily funded by the States of Jersey with a voluntary seed contribution of £500,000 from Jersey Electricity Plc.
The eligibility criteria for the Home Energy Scheme are:
- household in receipt of Income Support, or
- individual registered on the Westfield 65+ Health Plan, or
- individuals over 70 that hold less than £50,000 savings if married or co-habiting or £30,000 savings if living alone.
- individual in receipt of the Food Costs Bonus
States Housing Department properties are not eligible as they are currently undergoing a refurbishment programme which will improve property insulation and comfort.
The Chairman of the Jersey Energy Trust, Sir Nigel Broomfield said: “I’d like to invite anyone who is eligible for the Food Cost Bonus this year to contact the Energy Efficiency Service for an application form. With potential energy bill savings of up to £500 per year you really will feel the benefit this coming winter.”
The Energy Efficiency Service is accredited with the UK’s premier energy efficiency organisation, the Energy Saving Trust. This ensures that the advice is quality assured and reflects the most recent thinking in the marketplace.
Potential applicants are invited to call the Energy Efficiency Service directly on + (0)1534 441611 for more information on the scheme and how to apply.
gov.je