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Success for Rhondda Cynon Taf's Housing Strategy Team at the Wales Energy Efficiency Awards 2023

Wales Regional Energy Efficiency Awards 2023 2

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is pleased to announce that its Housing Strategy Team were recently awarded the Regional Small Scale Project (<250k) of the Year for their Minor Measures Scheme which is delivered by the Heat & Save Team.

The Awards celebrate effective energy initiatives all over Wales and recognises those who lead best practice within the Energy Efficiency Industry.

The Housing Strategy Team were nominated by Gwerin Management for the Council’s Scheme which supports vulnerable households that are in, or at risk of, fuel poverty. The scheme provides low-income households with up to £500 to install minor energy efficiency improvements, such as:

  • Draught Proofing
  • Radiator Installations
  • Boiler Repairs
  • Top Loft Insulation
  • Partial Cavity Wall Insulation

The Scheme was set up due to gaps in national energy policies which prevent households from accessing financial assistance, either because households are unable to afford work needed to unlock further funding or because there is a lack of funding for minor energy improvements. These minor energy improvements can make a considerable difference in making homes warmer and improving comfort levels.

The Scheme has allowed the most vulnerable in our communities to access and make energy efficiency improvements to their homes. It has led to energy savings, improved comfort and increased well-being for those households. Receiving assistance for these minor measures has helped households to fit loft access hatches to enable households to access free of charge/fully funded loft insulation.  It has also been able to provide other minor measures to allow some household to access external grant assistance. To date a total of 84 homes have received assistance and been supported through the grant.

Councillor Mark Norris, Cabinet Member for Development & Prosperity said “It’s fantastic for the team to be recognised for the work they are doing in Rhondda Cynon Taf to support some of our most vulnerable households during such an uncertain time. A huge thank you to Crispin Jones of Gwerin Management for the nomination.

“Having identified barriers that residents face to accessing further support, the team have created a scheme to unlock access, helping people to better insulate and heat their homes.

“This scheme is one of many innovative schemes that the Council has available to residents, and the team are always on hand to provide advice and guidance.”

The Heat & Save Team also have a heating grant and solar panel grant available to residents to help make their homes more energy efficient. More information on these grants and other services provided by the Heat & Save Team can be found here.

Posted on 21/02/2023