Energy efficiency

Home Upgrade Grant - Phase 2

Home Upgrade Grant is a Government backed scheme delivered by Local Authorities to improve the energy efficiency of eligible households for free (a contribution will be expected from Landlords).

Breaking news - the Government has announced on 22nd March 2023 that Cosy Homes in Lancashire has been awarded £41m for the second phase of the Home Upgrade Grant. The scheme will start on 1st April 2023 and will run for 2 years ending 31st March 2025.

The scheme eligibility will be similar to the first phase although for this new phase the Government has introduced area based eligibility. What this means is that if your property is in an eligible post code area, has no gas central heating and has an EPC of D, E, F or G you would qualify without having to provide any financial information such as proof of income or benefits. Click here to find out if your postcode is eligible!

 The aim is to help residents to improve the warmth and comfort of their homes whilst also reducing energy bills, carbon emissions and the levels of fuel poverty across Lancashire.

The scheme aims to raise the energy efficiency of low energy performance homes which do not have gas central heating by installing insulation measures, installing renewable heating technologies such as Air Source Heat Pumps. Solar PV and Solar Thermal and upgrading single glazed windows to double glazing units.

To benefit from the scheme your property must have an Energy Performance Certificate Rating of D, E , F or G. If you're not sure then you can check on the EPC Register. If your property does not have an EPC then we can do this under the scheme however if the survey shows your house has an EPC Rating of A, B or C then it would not qualify for any measures.

What is the Cosy Homes in Lancashire (CHiL) initiative?

Cosy Homes in Lancashire (CHiL) is an Affordable Warmth initiative established by the 15 Local Authorities in Lancashire.

CHiL has a centralised hub, managed by Rhea Projects Ltd who operate the scheme on behalf of all Lancashire Local Authorities.

Visit Cosy Homes in Lancashire

How do you find the energy efficiency rating for your home?

There's a handy website tool at GOV.UK - Find an Energy Certificate which will help you find out the EPC rating for your property. If your property has never had an EPC survey then we can do this through the scheme. The CHiL's friendly team can also help you with this.

How do you know the scheme is legitimate?

The scheme will be delivered under the CHiL initiative, with the support of Preston City Council. All work undertaken will be in accordance with current Government Retrofit standards (PAS 2035.2019) and will be carried out by Trustmark-registered installers for your peace of mind.

Boiler efficiency database

Information relating to boiler efficiency including the Seasonal Efficiency of Domestic Boilers in the UK (SEDBUK) ratings is available on the Boiler Efficiency Database website.

Heating and hot water (central heating)

The Heating and Hot Water Industry Council website will help you get the best from your central heating system. It offers advice on what to do when it goes wrong and provides you with contact details of manufacturers of boilers and other components, as well as installers in your area. They can provide you with sound advice and a professional service when you need it.

Renewable energy

Renewable energy comes from sources which will not run out, for example the wind or the sun. It is clean energy which does not produce harmful greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide which contribute to climate change.

There is a variety of different renewable technologies available to homeowners. However, if you are considering installing a system you should be aware that depending on your house location some systems may not be suitable.

It is also important to ensure your home is very well insulated before considering these technologies.

Types of renewable energy

• Wind energy
• Solar hot water heating (also called solar thermal)
• Solar electricity (Photovoltaic Panels)
• Ground or air source heat pumps
• Biomass and biofuels
• Hydro

Summary of energy efficiency actions taken to improve housing

The Home Energy Conservation Act requires all local authorities to make a declaration every two years summarising the actions they are taking or supporting to improve the energy efficiency of housing within their area. You can view the returns submitted by Preston City Council below.

Home Energy Conservation Act Report Questionnaire May 2021 (PDF) [129KB]