Leeds homeowners encouraged to apply for free solar panels and insulation

Hundreds of the coldest privately-owned homes in Leeds will receive free solar panels and insulation through a collaboration between Leeds City Council and Better Homes Yorkshire, helping residents to save money on energy bills and cut the city’s carbon footprint.

Homeowners can apply for free solar panels, cavity wall or loft insulation if their total household income is less than £30,000 per year or they receive certain benefits, with landlords also able to apply for heavily subsidised installation of the same upgrades if their property’s tenants collectively earn under £30,000.

Properties also need to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below and be of suitable construction before work can begin.

150 properties across Leeds have already benefitted from the scheme and hundreds more applications are currently in review, with funding available for homes to receive green upgrades before the scheme ends in March.

Morley resident, Anthony Smith, who recently installed solar panels using the scheme, said: ‘I’m really pleased to have been able to install solar panels at no cost on my semi-detached home. Even in October, they are generating energy and helping me save money on bills. The installation process was quick and easy and I would definitely recommend the scheme to anyone else who thinks they might qualify.’

Cllr Helen Hayden, executive member for infrastructure and climate at Leeds City Council, said: ‘It was great to meet Anthony earlier this week and hear how his new solar panels are already making a difference. He is just one of hundreds of residents that we’ve been able to help this year.

‘With climate change and the cost of energy in the news again, there’s never been a better time to install energy saving upgrades that are both good for the planet and our finances. That’s why I want to make sure that as many Leeds residents as possible can be helped with this funding before the scheme ends. If you’re a homeowner or landlord and think you might be eligible for this fantastic offer, I strongly encourage you to give Better Homes Yorkshire a call.’

In related news, new funding from the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) will support councils in engaging with difficult to reach landlords to tackle poor energy performance in rental properties.

Photo supplied by Leeds City Council