Last week the government launched The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS), a £1 billion drive to help those most in need to heat their homes for less.
It’s estimated that more than 300,000 homes in England, Scotland and Wales could qualify to have insulation installed, either fully-funded or part-funded by GBIS.
As well as saving families an average of £400 a year on energy bills, GBIS will help to support the UK’s Net Zero targets by reducing domestic energy waste.
Help for homes that need it
GBIS funds are available for households in lower council tax bands living in homes that are less energy efficient. The Scheme means many more people could now benefit from much-needed upgrades including Cavity Wall insulation, External Wall insulation and Loft insulation.
Customers will be able to find out if they can access GBIS funds to make their homes more energy efficient by using a new online checker tool. The tool asks a series of questions, including how the customer heats their home, whether their home has solid or cavity walls, and if they are receiving any benefits.
InstaGroup can also check if customers are eligible for GBIS funding when they contact us.
The Energy Security Secretary Rt Hon Claire Coutinho MP said, “Our Great British Insulation Scheme will help hundreds of thousands of people, including some of the most vulnerable in society, get the upgrades their homes need, while cutting their energy bills.”
Improving the UK’s energy efficiency
In 2010 just 14% of UK homes had an EPC rating of C or above. That figure rose to 47% in 2022. It’s hoped that through GBIS funding the UK’s domestic energy efficiency could be improved further still.
Mike Thornton, Chief Executive at the Energy Saving Trust said, “Improving the energy efficiency of our homes is a vital part of addressing both the energy crisis and climate emergency. By reducing demand for fossil fuels it provides a triple win long-term solution for cutting energy bills, decreasing carbon emissions and improving energy security.”
We’re ready to support GBIS
The launch of The Great British Insulation Scheme is welcomed, as it means more households will become eligible for financial help to insulate their homes. But before the cold winter months arrive, it’s crucial that people know that funding is available now.
Dave Robson, CEO at InstaGroup adds, “It’s really important to spread the good news about the Scheme and how it can help the people who need it most. The cost of heating our homes is significant, so it’s absolutely crazy that so much of that heat goes straight out of the walls and roofs. It’s an expensive and unnecessary waste of energy. GBIS provides a great opportunity to help fix this problem, and InstaGroup is happy to help people access essential grants that can make homes warmer, cosier and cheaper to heat.”
Find out more on our InstaGroup Homes funding page.