People living in homes without a radiator may be entitled to receive free gas-powered central heating under a new council scheme.

Hertsmere Borough Council is offering the free central heating scheme to homeowners who currently rely on inefficient storage heaters, room heaters or fires to warm their homes.

It comes after the council put in £20,000 of funding for the scheme, with an extra £10,000 available if the home fails to meet appropriate energy efficiency standards.

This will allow first-time central heating to be delivered to 36 homes within the borough.

Homeowners and private renters who receive certain state benefits or have a household income below £20,000 after rent or mortgage costs have been paid can qualify for the free heating.

Householders who are vulnerable to the effects of living in a cold home could also receive support.

Emily Dillon, housing strategy manager, said: “We are delighted to offer Hertsmere residents the chance to keep warm for less. Improving their homes’ heating facilities is not only good for their finances but good for the environment too. 

“The scheme will also improve the energy efficiency of properties in Hertsmere by installing modern mains gas central heating.
"Studies show gas central heating is three to four times less expensive than electric heating so this offer will help eligible residents lower their fuel bills.”

North Hertfordshire and East Hertfordshire District Councils will also be launching the scheme, which is set to provide 100 gas central heating systems to homes across the three areas.

This is supported by £230,000 of funding secured through National Grid’s innovative Warm Homes Fund programme.

The installations will help eligible householders switch to a more cost effective fuel and efficient home heating system.

YES Energy Solutions is managing the scheme on behalf of the councils and will be coordinating the installations through their network of accredited installers.

There are also separate grants available to help connect homes to the mains gas network where required.

Householders interested in the opportunity are encouraged to contact YES Energy Solutions on 01422 880100 to see if they are eligible for support.

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