City’s innovative fuel scheme set to warm residents’ homes

York Council and the Yorkshire Energy Partnership yesterday announced the launch of the £100,000 programme, where residents can get free loft and cavity wall insulation in their homes, potentially saving hundreds of pounds on their fuel bills each year.

The scheme, the first of its kind which is open to every private homeowner in York and on a first-come first-served basis, is to help residents insulate themselves from the worst fuel poverty crisis in decades, as revealed by the Yorkshire Post earlier this year.

The number of Yorkshire households likely to go cold this winter could rise to 600,000 – a figure that has nearly doubled in the past four years.

Experts have said the startling increase in fuel poverty – defined as the need to spend more than 10 per cent of household income on fuel to maintain adequate warmth – shows the situation is now at breaking point, amid predictions that bills will continue to rise by as much as 25 per cent by 2020.

Councillor Tracey Simpson-Laing, York Council cabinet member for health, housing and adult social services, said she hopes the new Winter Warmer scheme will greatly reduce fuel bills and improve the health of those most susceptible to illnesses over the winter months

“Insulating your house is the best way to keep your home warmer in winter,” she said.

“And because of the extra heat you’re keeping in your house, you’ll be able to turn your heating down and save money on your bills.

“This is the first scheme we’ve offered to all residents in York – and we’re not bound by criteria regarding age group or income benefits.

“Quite simply, the offer is open to all homeowners and landlords, so we’re expecting a lot of interest.”

According to the Energy Saving Trust, a house can lose up to 60 per cent of its heating through its walls and roof – and insulation can help householders save up to £310 per year on their energy bills.

To apply for the Winter Warmer scheme, which is funded by the council and national energy providers, call 01904 554406 before January 31.