Launched back in January 2016, the project has helped 362 households save money through providing energy tips and advice on switching to cheaper energy tariffs.
This community-based project, funded by the British Gas Energy Trust and managed by Charis Grants, aimed to help local residents save money and improve the energy efficiency of their homes in order to have a positive impact on the environment. The area of focus for Healthy Homes was in Peterborough and Fenland, enabling households in these areas to enjoy affordable warmth.
Those who applied for the scheme received a free home visit, where residents received impartial advice and tips on energy tariffs, plus information on the national £140 Warm Home Discount.
In addition, referrals were made for fully-funded home improvements, including boiler replacements, insulation and property maintenance, with these changes saving an average of £2,533 between 50 households. These improvements have saved a total of 17,418kg of carbon per year, which has in turn significantly reduced the carbon footprint of individual homes while helping to keep them warm.
Local resident and project participant Miss Smith explains: “I knew my gas and electricity were getting in a muddle and I was paying too much. With help from Healthy Homes, I switched tariff and saved £155 per year, as well as being able to claim back more than £800 in credit from my previous supplier!”
In total, households have saved £30,495 per annum through changing energy tariffs, £34,020 from Warm Home Discount applications, and £29,498 per annum through implementing simple behavioural changes.
For more information about the project, please visit www.pect.org.uk/HealthyHomes.