Medway Council is encouraging “off-grid” residents to apply for a scheme which could slash their energy bills and offset their carbon footprint.

The second phase of the government’s Home Upgrade Grant, which funds energy efficiency improvements and clean heating systems in low-income households, is open for applications.

Homes which have inefficient off-gas grid heated homes are prioritised for new systems in an effort to tackle fuel poverty and help meet the UK’s 2050 Net Zero commitment.

To qualify for the fund, households have to be heated by alternative fuels including electricity, oil, liquid propane gas, and solid fuels.

They also need to either be in a pre-qualified postcode area or have a total household income less than £31,000, or where cost of living is below £20,000 after rent or mortgage payments.

If eligible, residents could be offered insulation upgrades, solar panels, energy efficient lighting, air source heat pumps, and better heating controls, all in order to lower energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint.

Also, those who don’t have an energy performance certificate rating will be assessed and provided one for free, which will give examples of what can be done to improve energy efficiency.

The scheme will use local installers who will help customers to understand their properties, how they can be improved, and arrange surveys and installations.

The council is supporting the scheme run by Greater South East Net Zero Hub in order to help people save money and reduce the Towns’ impact on climate change.

Cllr Simon Curry (Lab), portfolio holder for climate change and strategic regeneration, said: “This is a great scheme to help improve energy efficiency while helping those struggling with their bills.

“We are committed to achieving net zero carbon in Medway by 2050 and this project will help us reach this goal, while reducing residents’ fuel expenditure at the same time.

“I would encourage any eligible residents to apply to find out how they can make a difference.”

To find out more about the Home Upgrade Grant and whether you’re eligible for support, click here.

Medway Council is part of a group of councils who have received £82 million from central government to make the improvements.

The council will also be contacting residents they believe to be eligible directly about the scheme.