Well … what a year 2020 was for us all and who could have seen THAT coming! It’s time to draw a line under it so let’s look at the outlook for UK double glazing grants 2021.
We’re not out of the Covid-19 woods yet but, with the vaccine being rolled out, one would like to assume that we’ll start getting back to a degree of normality at some stage in 2021. And that means there’s likely to be a very high focus on economic recovery. In turn this means we may see a variety of measures and incentives introduced to kick-start to economy.
Let’s not forget Brexit too – even now we still don’t know if we’re leaving the EU with or without a deal!
Will this mean that a new dawn of double glazing grants 2021 are a real possibility … we’re hopeful.
We said that double glazing grants are available as a secondary measure however, there are caveats which mean that it’s not going to be good for many of us:
So that’s what you’ve got to consider – if you currently have single glazing or if you have solid doors from pre 2002 then your luck’s in!
As with many of these initiatives there have been teething problems. There was a delay in getting the vouchers out to people and there was also a problem with a low number of Trustmark contractors. In a way this has worked in our favour though because the scheme, which was designed as just a short term initiative, has now been extended. Initially measures had to be installed by April 2021, now it’s going right through to 31st March 2022.
Plenty of time to check this out and for applications. So, for that reason, if you have single glazing or pre 2002 solid doors then get your application in as there’s double glazing grants to be had!
To get started check eligibility at: https://www.gov.uk/
Then apply at: https://www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk/
ECO3 is the third phase of the governments Energy Company Obligation policy which will run until March 2022. The purpose is to deliver energy efficiency and heating improvement measures to homes across Great Britain. The main focus is on property owners on low income, who are vulnerable and those in fuel poverty so it’s not going to be for the majority.
Energy Company Obligation (ECO3) consultation sets out the policy of the scheme that will run from Autumn 2018 until March 2022. The scheme delivers energy efficiency and heating measures to homes in Great Britain.
If you think you may be eligible you can check it out at https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/
The picture remains different north of the border with the Greener Scotland initiative run by the Scottish Government continuing. There are 3 main options:
We’re expecting more initiatives to follow but, at the moment in Northern Ireland homeowners can get repair and improvement grants from the Housing Executive, but only in certain circumstances. The Disabled Facilities Grant scheme and Mandatory Repair Grants scheme continue as per last year. They are not however linked to home energy efficiency initiatives. Find Out More >>>.
When you’re looking for double glazing grants or any other form of energy saving subsidy a good starting point is the Housing Executive NI Energy Advice Line. It’s specifically established to provide: “independent and impartial energy advice to domestic householders in Northern Ireland plus referrals to energy grants and other sources of help in the region.”
There’s a specific section on energy efficient grants ( Click Here ) which will be worth keeping an eye on as any grants that come available should be detailed here.
Again, we can report little change in Wales with the continuation of the Welsh Government’s Warm Home Program.
Under this initiative are two seperate programs:
NEST is an initiative which is aimed at solid wall or hard to treat properties which are privately owned. At least one resident has to be in receipt of a means tested benefit. Under the improvement measures there is no mention of double glazing grants but it may be worth a discussion or finding out more. Click Here >>>.
The alternative ARBED scheme also continues. This scheme tackles a number of refurbishment improvements to properties. Again though, there’s no specific mention of double glazing grants but it does refer to draft proofing measures. Find out more about ARBED HERE >>>.
The UK double glazing industry is lobbying the Government hard. Like most, this industry has been hit hard and would benefit from support in getting it back on its feet again. The Green Homes Grant helps but not enough for the general double glazing market.
Interest rates remain low and are likely to do so for some time however. This means that, double glazing grant or no double glazing grant, there could be some amazing deals for homeowners. Already we’re seeing low prices, price matches, interest free credit over several years, trade in recycle deals on existing double glazing etc – we don’t see this changing in 2021 so it could be a great year to replace or upgrade existing double glazing too.