Green Homes Service

In November 2007, Hilary Benn announced the funding of a new 1-stop-shop service to be delivered by the Energy Saving Trust to help people green their homes and lifestyles. Commencing on 2nd April 2008, the Green Homes Project will provide a single place where people can access information, advice and support on energy saving, domestic renewables, personal transport, reducing waste and saving water. Based on a regional network of 1-stop-shops, services will be rolled out nationwide, with householders being able to access:

• A total home health check - essentially an MOT for your home - providing advice on energy saving, but also on water efficiency, waste reduction and recycling and green travel options
• Offers from energy companies for discounted or free energy saving products such as cavity wall and loft insulation and a range of other financial support products and services to make it simpler and easier to save money and cut your household emissions
• Specific advice when buying or selling homes with poor energy ratings, (F&G rated Energy Performance Certificates) connecting home owners with grants, discounts and support packages that allow them to improve the rating of their homes

The Green Homes project will also pilot a home makeover service, where householders receive an in-house audit that will clearly identify priority improvements that reduce carbon emissions. The service will also audit householders travel, link to grants and offers plus, for the first time, give practical guidance on how people can reduce waste and save water.