Budget delivers home insulation

Thursday 28 May 2009

The Government has delivered on its promise of dealing with the chill in tougher economic times. The Budget has promised a grant of up to $1800 to pay for insulation and heating for homeowners, and it’s not subject to income testing.

By Vicki Holder

More than 180,000 homes will have access to grants as a major investment in household energy efficiency.

While Community Card Holders can get $1800 for insulation and a further $1200 for heating, landlords of card-holding tenants will be entitled to an $1800 grant and $500 for heating.

More than $323.3 million has been set aside over four years to fit houses built before 2000 with insulation and clean heating devices such as heat pumps and approved wood burners. The scheme will start on July 1 this year.

Energy and Resources Minister, Gerry Brownlee says the scheme is designed to reduce health risks and play an important role in stimulating the economy.

The programme will be delivered through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) as part of its EnergyWise programme.

"The programme will work with private sector partners such as construction firms and energy retailers, as well as councils, health boards and iwi, so households can borrow money to help them invest further in a well-insulated and warm home," says Brownlee. "At the same time, money will be set aside to ensure that low income households in particular are targeted."

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