Warmer Homes Way Ahead

19/06/2007

Northern Ireland Electricity representatives were in Magherafelt recently to help launch a scheme for householders to get a free energy saving package for their home, including a new free central heating system.  
 
The ‘Warmer Ways to Better Health’ scheme not only gives a free heating system, but also a full package of insulation for loft and wall, energy saving bulbs and heating controls.  
 
“The point of this scheme is to help people here reduce their energy bills,” said NIE’s Claire McCambridge.  
 
“In summer we maybe don’t think about heating our homes for the colder weather, but now is the ideal time to think about preparing your home for next winter. It’s all about using less energy, which means lower energy bills. This scheme gives eligible homes an energy makeover, everything a home needs to be nice and cosy whilst using as little energy as possible.”  
 
The energy saving package, which is open to householders who own their own home or rent it from a private landlord, includes an efficient boiler, installation of a programmer, room thermostats, cylinder thermostat and thermostatic radiator valves, with no pipework conversion needed.  
 
Eight Councils across Northern Ireland, including Magherafelt District Council and Cookstown District County Council, are taking part in promoting the scheme. The other six Councils are Antrim, Ballymoney, Coleraine, Larne, Moyle and Newtownabbey.  
 
‘Warmer Ways to Better Health’ is open to single people with a net income of less than £12,000 or a couple or lone parent family with a net income of less than £18,000 It is also open to you if:  
 
· You or your spouse/partner are receiving a means tested benefit  
· Your spouse/partner or a dependant relative of any age living with you at home receiving Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance  
· You or your spouse/partner have a particular health need that is made worse by the cold  
 
The scheme is funded through NIE’s Energy Efficiency Programme and co-funded by the Department of Social Development.  
 
To apply for this scheme, which will be available on a first come, first served basis until funds are exhausted, please call Maura Barker at Oakleaf Rural Community Network on Tel: 028 7930 1550.  
 
To find out about other NIE energy saving schemes or to get free and impartial energy efficiency advice, call the Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre on freephone 0800 512 012 or go to www.est.org.uk.  

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