New research has revealed that most Birmingham residents may be unaware of an energy efficiency scheme being delivered by British Gas which provides free gas boilers to low income households. British Gas will provide free or low cost gas boilers as part of its commitment to delivering energy efficiency measures to homes across Britain in 2016. This will include homes in Birmingham.
A majority of people in the city said that their boiler is the most important item in their home and believed that a replacement boiler is the single most expensive item.
Boilers typically account for half the cost of household’s energy bills so replacing an inefficient boiler with a free or low cost, A-rated boiler could save households around £340 a year.
Despite awareness of the importance and cost implications of efficient boilers, residents consider upgrading their smartphones, tablets and laptops to be of greater importance.
Angela Needle at British Gas said; “This new scheme will deliver more efficient boilers to more people for less money. In fact for most eligible Birmingham residents it will be completely free.
So, given the availability of free and low cost boilers together with the many benefits they can bring, I’d encourage anyone who qualify to get in touch with us to find out more about the scheme and if they qualify.”
The scheme is only open to those in receipt of income related benefits such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit and Job Seekers Allowance.
It is not exclusive to British Gas customer, it is also open to tenants as well as homeowners meaning thousands of residents are eligible for the scheme.
A small contribution towards the cost of improvements is required only if the work means relocating rather than simply replacing the boiler; if the home is already energy efficient or if additional work such as installing a pump, extending flues or an electrical upgrade is required.
Participants will also receive free HomeCare Central Heating Care™ - worth up to £228 - for a year.
Interested households can find out whether or not they are eligible for the scheme by contacting British Gas
