“Serious free cash” is how Martin Lewis puts it. The government’s Green Homes Grant could cover up to £5000 of retrofit costs (up to £10,000 for those on lower incomes), so – despite reported difficulties with the scheme – it is definitely worth checking out.

Most of us want to take action to reduce carbon emissions and energy bills, and improving the energy efficiency of our homes – making them warmer and more comfortable – allows us to do this.

So what exactly is the Green Homes Grant?

The Green Homes Grant is provided through a government voucher, allowing home owners and landlords to claim:

• up to £5,000, covering up to two-thirds of the cost of energy efficiency and low carbon heat improvements to their home; or
• for those on low incomes (where a household member receives one of the qualifying benefits), up to £10,000 for the total cost of improvements.

The scheme runs until 31 March 2022. Getting quotes, applying for vouchers, having the work carried out and redeeming vouchers will all need to be done before the 31 March 2022 deadline, or 3 months from the date vouchers are issued, whichever is earlier. Homeowners can request an extension for circumstances outside of their control.

It is subject to a number of rules and restrictions. To help navigate these, we have produced a leaflet summarising key points and signposting further information, which you can access here.

(Please note: As a community group, we aim to provide information and support and do our best to ensure accuracy of all content. We do not accept liability for any loss or problems arising from use of any materials, links or sources in this publication.)

This post was amended on 19 November 2020 to reflect the government’s extension of the scheme to 31 March 2022.