PEOPLE living in Penrith and The Border can now get up to £5,000 of energy efficient home improvements funded by the Government as part of a new scheme.

The Green Homes Grant will not only enable households to improve their energy efficiency and cut down on bills, but help protect the environment and jobs, livelihoods and the local economy by creating more work for the local tradespeople.

The new scheme, which opened for business on 30 September, includes a range of energy saving measures at home including insulation for floors and roofs, double or triple glazing and draught-proofing.

Under the terms of the Green Homes Grant, the Government will offer vouchers to cover up to two thirds of energy efficient home improvements – worth up to £5,000.

The improvements mean families could be saving £600 a year on bills.

Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border said he would encourage households to apply for the vouchers for the many benefits they will bring.

“As a member of the Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee, I am really pleased the Government has introduced this scheme,” Dr Hudson said.

“Not only will more energy efficient homes help families save money on their bills, but it will also help the environment too.

“With winter coming, anything we can do to make our homes warmer and more efficient is a real boost.

“And there are other benefits with this scheme too, such as providing more work for the local tradespeople who would carry out the work helping to boost the economy.

“I hope as many people as possible across Penrith and The Border can sign up to this scheme and all the benefits and savings it provides.”

The Green Homes Grant also offers vouchers up to £10,000 for low income families and is available to some landlords as well as homeowners. For full details on the Green Homes Grant, who is eligible and how to apply, go to www.gov.uk/GreenHomesGrant