Action four: Help with energy saving and home improvements

Energy saving top tips

There are lots of quick and easy ways to save energy, lower your bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

Whether you’re a homeowner or renting, a student or living with parents, there are many things you can do.

Check out the Energy Saving Trust website for ideas

Rent and Council Tax

If you’re on a low income you may be able to get help with paying your rent and Council Tax through your local council.

Certain people are eligible for discounts on their Council Tax, such as those who live alone, people with disabilities, carers and students. Make sure you check if you could be eligible.

Housing Benefit can help you pay your rent if you’re unemployed, on a low income or claiming benefits. It’s being replaced by Universal Credit, but you can still make a new claim if you have reached State Pension age or are in supported, sheltered or temporary housing.

Housing grants and funding

If you own a property in England or Wales you can get recommendations for home improvements that could make your property cheaper to heat and keep warm.

For each recommendation you can see:

an estimated cost of making the improvement
how much you could save on your bills
next steps if you want to make the improvement

Find out more about housing grants and funding

Support for Mortgage Interest

If you are a homeowner, you might be able to get help towards interest payments on your mortgage or loans you’ve taken out for certain repairs and improvements to your home. It’s paid as a loan, which you’ll need to repay with interest when you sell or transfer ownership of your home.

Find out more about Support for Mortgage Interest (GOV.UK).

Green Homes Grant

The Green Homes Grant is a scheme for homeowners and landlords to support the installation of energy saving low-carbon heating improvements to their homes. This could help save up to £600 a year on energy bills. This is for households with an annual income of less than £30,000.

Find out more about how to reduce your energy usage and bills.

Go back to the main Cost of Living Hub