Date: 19/01/2010
Every privately owned or rented home in High Peak is to be offered a free energy survey.
Starting in Buxton and Glossop, householders will receive an introductory letter inviting them to make an appointment with a qualified energy surveyor.
The surveyor will identify where loft and cavity wall insulation might be improved or whether it would help to install renewable energy systems such as solar hot water.
Launched by the Borough Council in partnership with Apex Carbon Solutions, the Warm Streets energy efficiency campaign is part of a big push to help residents reduce energy bills, keep warm and shrink their carbon footprint.
Subject to survey, insulation improvements will be offered free to eligible householders.
All privately owned or privately rented domestic properties are entitled to a grant towards the cost of loft and cavity wall insulation, making both types of improvement available from £149, subject to survey. Some households will be eligible to have the insulation installed free of charge.
Households struggling to achieve affordable warmth will also be directed to suitable national and local schemes, and will be shown how energy switching can save money.
Apex Carbon Solutions are also able to give advice to small businesses wishing to improve their energy efficiency through low-energy lighting, or variable speed drives, taking advantage of Carbon Trust interest-free loans and the Enhanced Capital Allowance scheme.
Householders wishing to take up the Warm Streets offer should await the letter of introduction while businesses wishing to request a survey should call 0845 450 4967.
Said John Haken, Executive Councillor for the Environment: "Warm Streets is a great opportunity for householders looking to improve their energy efficiency and do their bit for the environment without spending a fortune.
"Householders with any concerns about the security of the survey should ask to see the surveyor's ID badge. Alternatively, residents can call the council on 0845 129 77 77/01298 28400 and ask about Warm Street surveyors", he advised.