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Is grant support for home insulation soon to be replaced by loans? The government’s latest proposals certainly imply this.

Photo courtesy of www.cocoonyourhome.co.uk

The Green Deal proposes to spread the cost of new home insulation across future energy bills associated with a property. It is hoped that this will remove any obvious barrier to getting the work done. A guiding principle is that insulation installed must save the householder more money than the extra charge on their bills. 

However, we don’t yet know how much loan interest repayments will add to the cost. Currently cavity wall and loft insulation cost under £100 each in some areas thanks to Council grants. The Energy Saving Trust estimates households can save £115 each year with cavity wall insulation. This is a remarkable return on investment.

Get insulation installed in 2011 and you’ll benefit from a grant. Beyond March 2012, when energy supplier grants are up for review, this is much less certain. So, for householders with savings, no intention of moving home and no desire to pay interest on a loan, today’s best offers arguably represent the real green deal.

Taking advantage of grant offers is easy. You can compare insulation deals at www.cocoonyourhome.co.uk or on 0800 8048 777, or check with the Council.

Cocoon is an independent comparison service operated by United Sustainable Energy Agency, a not-for-profit organisation.

Discounted loft and cavity wall insulation is available to all local residents who own their homes or rent privately. If you receive income or disability related benefits, you may be able to get it done free.

Councils in Chiltern, Cherwell, Milton Keynes, Southampton, South Bucks, Watford, West Oxon and Vale of White Horse are all providing grants to support  low price insulation. Wycombe will launch a £99 insulation offer in June 2011.