South Gloucestershire Council

Published: 01/02/2012

Although open to all households, the Countdown Project is aimed particularly at people who have difficulty heating their homes efficiently with the rise in energy prices but who also have an interest in making their property more energy efficient. For example, you will be able to apply for funding to help invest in green technology, such as air or ground source heat pumps, or put the money towards the cost of cavity wall insulation.

The scheme is being run in partnership with the charity Severn Wye Energy Agency (Severn Wye) who specialise in working with local authorities to help develop energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Other local authority partners are Stroud District Council, Wiltshire and The Forest of Dean District Council.

Once an application has been successful and with Severn Wye’s help we can call on a network of contacts, from suppliers to building firms, to supply and install these energy saving technologies so that you don’t have to arrange this yourself.

The scheme complements the Government’s Green Deal proposals to cut carbon emissions through a nationwide scheme offering energy efficiency improvements to bill payers without having to pay up front – you take out a loan with the energy company and pay this back through expected savings in your energy bill.

In welcoming the Countdown Project, Cllr Matthew Riddle, executive member for community care and housing, said: “The Countdown Project is a great way for households in South Gloucestershire to improve the energy efficiency of their homes thereby cutting their energy bills and carbon emissions.

“I would encourage residents to get in touch and learn about the scheme ahead of its launch because it will offer many benefits that people can take advantage of, such as loft and cavity wall insulation.”

The £30,000 investment in the Countdown Project by South Gloucestershire Council will be spread over three years and applications for the scheme will be available in the summer. If you are interested in learning more about this scheme ahead of the opening date for applications, email our private sector housing team at psechousing@southglos.gov.uk or call 01454 865453.

Severn Wye also advise calling the Warm and Well advice line to find out about the current situation for grants for loft and cavity wall insulation on 0800 500 3076.