Low Carbon Buildings Programme
The Low Carbon Buildings Programme householder stream is now closed for electricity technologies (solar photovoltaic’s, wind turbines and small scale hydro), so these technologies no longer qualify for funding.
However, the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) that now controls the Low Carbon Buildings Programme will continue to provide grants for the following microgeneration technologies:
In charge of the administration of these grants is the Energy Saving Trust.
DECC's Low Carbon Buildings Programme householder stream is expected to be open until late 2010 for these heat generating technologies, or for as long as funds last.
As with any application the process is not the simplest but we can offer a few pointers that will help you assess whether it is right for you in terms of timescale and finances.
1. The deadline for applications has been extended to late 2010 or for as long as the funds are available. There is no limit on the number of applications received each month so they are allocated on a first come first served basis as long as the funds last. Although it depends on popularity of the programme, this means it's best to apply as soon as possible before the money runs out.
2. There is a £2500 maximum limit on grants per household. Householders can apply for more than one technology but the limit is still £2500 so it's best to invest in your most viable options. The details of the amount of money available for each technology are listed below:
3. Before you can apply for a grant you have to undertake a number of measures to make your house as energy-efficient as possible. Although this may add extra expense it does make sense as there's no point in funding a microgeneration project if the energy produced is then wasted and by taking these measures you will be saving money in the long run.
These measures include:
a) A fully insulated loft to meet current building regulations e.g. 270mm of mineral wool insulation or a suitable alternative. If you're looking for a more natural, low-carbon insulation the Good Energy Shop now sells natural wool insulation. Click here for details.
b) Cavity wall insulation if you have cavity walls. The Energy Saving Trust can help you find the best option. Click here for details
c) Low energy light bulbs in all appropriate light fittings. Click here to view the full range of energy saving and LED light bulbs available at the Good Energy Shop.
d) Basic controls for your heating system which includes a room thermostat and a programmer or timer.
In addition the Low Carbon Buildings Programme suggests you get a home energy check to suggest which measures would be most suitable for your home. If you live in London, click here for more information on the Green Home Concierge service.
4. Householders must have in place the required planning consents before applying to the scheme. More visible installations such as wind turbines are almost certainly going to require planning permission. On 6th April 2008 the Government announced new "permitted development rights" to allow householders in most areas in the UK to proceed with solar PV, solar thermal, ground and water source heat pumps, and biomass installations without planning permission. The only exceptions to this are listed buildings, areas of outstanding natural beauty and conservation areas.
For more information see the Energy Saving Trust planning section.
To be certain it's best to get in touch with your planning authority as soon as possible. Also try to find out if any of your neighbours have shown an interest in microgeneration - this can help to win your bid for planning permission if you do need it.
The grants do not allow for delays that result from getting planning permission or other statutory requirements, therefore it's best to get the necessary planning approval before applying for a grant. If the circumstances are truly out of your control an extension of two months will be allowed.
5. Once your home is energy efficient according to above measures you need to obtain a quote for an approved microgeneration product from an approved installer. The Microgeneration Certification Scheme decides these and all Good Energy Generate Your Own products and installers are approved.
6. Applications can be made online or with a paper application. Note that the paper application will take longer to process. After receiving a grant offer letter via email, you can begin installing the technology. However you do not receive the grant until the installation has been completed. Your installer will issue you with a certificate of completion that you submit to the Energy Saving Trust to receive your grant payment.
7. Once you have received an offer there is a time limit for each technology to be installed. This is as follows:
- Solar thermal grant applications will be given 3 months to complete installations
- Heat Pumps and Biomass will be given 6 months
- Hydro will be given 12 months
Technologies being installed on buildings under construction will have a grant offer validity of 6 months (except hydro which has a 12 month grant offer period). And of course the sooner you install, the sooner you start making your own energy.
8. After you have completed the installation and you have paid the installer, you can submit the claim documents to the Energy Saving Trust. The grant claim is checked and, if in order, the grant will be issued within 25 working days of receipt of the claim.
What grants are available for business customers?
The Low Carbon Buildings Programme - Phase 2E (LCBP2E) is a Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) scheme offering grants for microgeneration installations by public sector and charitable organisations. Check the Scheme Conditions to confirm your eligibility.