Climate change

Improving your home’s energy efficiency, for example, by adding insulation - is vital to reducing bills, combating the climate crisis, and addressing fuel poverty. Residents have told us that cost is the main barrier to upgrading their home’s energy efficiency, with many expressing a desire for more financial support from the Council. In November 2023, we launched the Energy Upgrade Loan to help.

The application process for the Energy Upgrade Loan has now closed. We have processed all applications and are currently evaluating the outcomes. Depending on the results, we hope to launch another round of applications in the future. Please stay tuned for updates.

Waltham Forest Council offered an interest-free loan to eligible owner-occupiers and landlords in Waltham Forest Council areas with an energy rating (EPC) of D or lower to help with the cost of installing:

• Energy efficiency improvements: Roof and loft insulation, wall insulation, floor insulation, windows and doors, double and triple glazing.
• Low and zero emission heating: Air source and ground source heat pumps.
• Renewable energy: Solar PV, solar thermal.

The loan allowed residents to combine funding for energy efficiency improvements, low and zero emission heat, and other renewable technologies, with support ranging from £2,000 to £20,000. This funding could cover up to 100% of the installation cost.

Energy Upgrade Assessment Requirements

To receive funding, applicants needed a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), and all improvements applied for had to be recommended in one of these energy reports:

1. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC):

If your EPC is more than 5 years old, a new one would be required upon application. The loan could cover the cost of obtaining an EPC up to a maximum of £150.

EPCs are issued by accredited Domestic Energy Assessors. To check whether a property already has an EPC or to search for an accredited assessor, visit gov.uk to find an energy certificate.

2. Energy Saving Trust Homewise Report

Applicants could view recommended energy upgrades by completing a short assessment through the Energy Saving Trust online tool, Homewise.

We hope to launch another round of applications depending on the evaluation of the current outcomes. Please check back for future updates on the availability of the Energy Upgrade Loan.