New government scheme to boost jobs in green construction

Cutting household bills and carbon emissions

The Green Homes Grant will help fund the cost of home improvements in over 600,000 homes across England, with measures that could save families up to £600 a year on their energy bills.

The insulation of walls, floors and roofs as well as the installation of low-carbon heating systems, such as heat-pumps or solar thermal systems will be covered by the scheme. There will also be provision for replacing single glazing, upgrading to energy efficient doors and replacing heating controls and thermostats in homes that are adequately insulated.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak said:

‘The Green Homes Grant is a vital part of our plan for jobs as we secure the UK’s economic recovery from coronavirus. This is going to be a green recovery with concern for our environment at its heart. It will help to protect and create jobs, while also saving people money and cutting carbon.’

How will the Green Homes Grant work?

Homeowners and social/private landlords will be issued with vouchers towards the cost of greening their homes. From late August, they will be able to access advice and support on appropriate improvement measures from the Simple Energy Advice service (SEA) and make an application for the work to be undertaken by local, approved tradespeople.

Whilst most will receive up to two-thirds of the cost, those on low incomes receiving benefits will be able to receive vouchers covering all costs, up to a maximum of £10,000.

How can installers take advantage of the Green Homes Grant?

The government is keen to ensure that all work is completed to a high standard so only tradespeople with TrustMark or Microgeneration Cerfication Scheme (MCS) accreditation will be able to take part.

TrustMark’s Chief Executive, Simon Ayers said:

‘TrustMark accredited tradespeople will provide households with the confidence they need that those working on their homes have been thoroughly vetted for technical competence, customer service and trading practices.’

The scheme will no doubt result in an increased demand for installers. We run a variety of top-up courses for qualified heating engineers so if you’re interested in becoming an installer of air source heat pumps or finding out more about out Energy Efficiency course, please click here for details.