A new government grant will provide energy and cost-saving upgrades to households across Bucks.

Buckinghamshire Council has been awarded £576,000 to help low-income households reduce their carbon emissions by providing upgrades to existing heating systems.

The cost-saving upgrades available depend on eligible homes meeting specific criteria, which include the fuel sources in place and their current energy efficiency and EPC rating.

The Home Upgrade Grant is a new government scheme which aims to provide energy efficiency and heating system upgrades to owner-occupied and private rental properties across the country.

Cabinet member for Climate Change and Environment, Gareth Williams, said the new funding would help Buckinghamshire Council to continue to improve the county’s most energy inefficient homes.

He said: “The home improvements will help low-income households to save money and reduce fuel poverty. They will also cut carbon emissions and support our progress towards making Buckinghamshire net zero by 2050.

“With fuel costs at an all-time high, the second phase of this scheme is an important chance for local residents to improve their homes, save money on their energy bills and reduce their carbon emissions.”

Residents who are eligible for the Home Upgrade scheme will be contacted by the council in due course. Further information will also be made available soon on the Bucks Council website.

Those struggling to afford basic necessities such as food and fuel can also get in touch with the council’s Helping Hand team, either by calling 01296531151 or clicking here to complete an online form.