News from our partners: Get a free central heating system this summer

News from our partners E.ON

Energy provider E.ON is working with Shropshire Council to help residents reduce their energy bills and make their homes warmer and more affordable this summer. The Warmer Homes Shropshire scheme is installing free first-time gas central heating systems in eligible¹ residents’ homes.

The free central heating scheme was first announced in May 2020, but many households are yet to take up the limited time offer. Eligible residents taking up the offer could save on average £630 per year on fuel bills² and benefit from a warmer, more affordable home.

About the Warmer Homes Shropshire scheme:

• Homes across the region which are not connected to mains gas and rely on inefficient ways of heating their homes, for example electric storage or panel heaters, could be eligible for free first-time gas central heating.
• Qualifying residents could also receive financial support for new gas network connections.
• Residents do not have to be an E.ON energy customer to benefit.
• In addition to the first-time gas central heating, eligible residents may also be able to receive free insulation measures for their homes, including loft and cavity wall insulation.
• As part of the scheme, residents may also be able to benefit from free energy efficiency advice, from the Keep Shropshire Warm scheme run by Marches Energy Agency.

Nigel Dewbery, Director of Residential Solutions at E.ON UK, said:

“We’re committed to improving the sustainability of homes across the UK, and inefficient heating systems are one of the main reasons why homes across the country aren’t as efficient as they could be.

“Schemes like this one in Shropshire help to support eligible residents by providing new gas connections and first-time central heating systems, therefore ensuring residents are able to heat their homes to the temperature needed to stay warm and healthy, and helping them to become more energy efficient.

“Summer is the perfect time to consider upgrading your central heating system as we generally rely on our heating less during the warmer months. We’d urge all eligible residents to contact their local council to find out more and to apply for the free measures.“

Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and assets, added:-

“We know that many households in Shropshire struggle with fuel poverty every year; more so this year with the extra pressure put on by the pandemic. Many people are spending additional time at home and may need support with how to stay warm and safe; while those who are ill or self-isolating may also have concerns about practical challenges in paying for their energy.

“We want as many people as possible to benefit from the Warmer Homes Shropshire scheme and hope residents take up the opportunity to get their homes made warmer and safer, ready for winter. Please do call or email us to find out more.

“Our Keep Shropshire Warm team are also here to support those who are struggling to heat their homes or afford their energy bills, as well as householders looking to improve the energy efficiency of their home. They accept referrals from family and friends, so if you or someone you know is worried about fuel bills, please do get in touch.”

For more information and to apply visit: https://www.shropshire.gov.uk/warmer-homes-shropshire or call: 0333 202 4481. You can also call the team at Keep Shropshire Warm on 0800 112 3743, the council’s free and impartial energy advice service.