New West Yorkshire project could save renters hundreds on bills

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority is working with housing associations on a £10m project which could save more than 1,300 households an average of £240 on their annual energy bills.

The project, which will be part funded through the government’s Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, will involve the installation of a number of energy saving measures such as external wall insulation and double glazing in homes which are currently rented through housing associations across West Yorkshire.

The measures will save an estimated 450 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year, and are expected to create 185 jobs and support five apprenticeships.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: ‘Tackling the climate emergency gives us an opportunity to invest in projects which really make a difference to peoples’ lives.

‘It’s vital that we ensure no one is left behind in the transition to a net zero economy and that all communities feel the benefit.

‘Improving energy efficiency in homes will not only help our region lower its carbon emissions, but it will also enable people to save money on their ever-increasing bills, tackle fuel poverty and create new skilled jobs.’

The Combined Authority has submitted a bid for £5 million to the Government’s Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund and the remaining £5 million has already been secured through match funding from the housing associations.

A decision on the funding bid is expected later this month and the work to improve energy efficiency in homes should be completed by January 2023.

The Combined Authority has partnered with nine housing associations across Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield.

In related news, more support is available for landlords to improve the energy efficiency of privately rented properties in Cornwall, as the Council is confirmed as one of 59 local authorities to receive funding from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

Photo by Erik Mclean