Warm Homes Grant to Help Wyre Forest Residents Cut Energy Costs
News release issued:
More households in Wyre Forest will soon benefit from lower energy bills, thanks to a new grant secured by Wyre Forest District Council.
The council has received £1.275 million in funding from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to launch the Warm Homes: Local Grant—a scheme designed to help residents make their homes more energy-efficient.
The grant is open to homeowners and private renters, regardless of how their homes are heated. It is aimed at supporting low-income households with tailored upgrades that make homes warmer, healthier, and cheaper to run.
To qualify, households must have a pre-tax annual income of £36,000 or less, or be receiving certain means-tested benefits. Homes must also have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F or G. If a property does not currently have an EPC, the council can arrange a free assessment for homes likely to qualify.
This new scheme builds on the success of last year’s Home Upgrade Grant (HUG), which helped improve 76 homes across the district. The council invested £1.28 million in upgrades including insulation, solar panels, and air source heat pumps. These improvements were tailored to each property and focused on homes not connected to the mains gas network. The project was delivered in partnership with energy advice charity Act on Energy and installer Broad Oak Properties Ltd.
In total, the council installed:
- 64 solar PV systems
- 50 insulation upgrades (including loft and cavity wall insulation)
- 17 air source heat pumps
- 40 extractor fans to improve ventilation
According to national figures from DESNZ, Wyre Forest District Council delivered twice as many home improvements as the average local authority—placing it in the top 15% of performers nationwide.
Councillor Chris Rogers, Cabinet Member for Housing, Health and Wellbeing, said:
“We’re proud to have helped so many households through the Home Upgrade Grant and are excited to launch the Warm Homes scheme. These improvements not only reduce energy bills but also support our commitment to net zero and healthier living environments. We will continue to bid for funding that helps us support our residents and tackle climate change.”
Residents can check their eligibility and find out more about the Warm Homes: Local Grant by visiting the Council's Warm Homes webpage. Enquiries can also be made calling 01562 732190 or by email at privatesectorhousing@wyreforestdc.gov.uk.