How you could get a free central heating system in time for winter

Neath Port Talbot Council is calling on homeowners who are eligible for a free gas central heating system to apply to its Warm Homes Fund in time for next winter.

The Fund helps reduce the cost of energy bills through installing a first time gas central heating system (boiler, radiators, pipework) and energy saving measures (loft insulation, draught proofing, low energy light bulbs etc.) to ensure a home is heated efficiently.

To qualify, homeowners must:

Not already have a gas central heating system.

Own or privately rent a home in Neath Port Talbot (private landlords will be required to pay a 25% contribution towards the cost of the works).

And be classed as a low income household OR spend more than 10% of your household income on energy bills OR claim certain benefits.

If you are unsure whether you qualify, the council’s Housing Renewals Team (01639 686504 or email renewalarea@npt.gov.uk) will be able to help you through the application process.

Homeowners do not have to pay anything towards the cost of the central heating system but the Fund cannot be used towards the cost of a gas connection to your property. However, some households may be eligible for financial support towards a gas connection through the Fuel Poverty Network Extension Scheme.

Many of the homeowners who have successfully applied to the Fund previously heated their homes using electric heaters or coal fired boilers.

A resident from Port Talbot who has saved £473.28 since switching to a gas central heating system, said: “It’s much more comfortable and much warmer than electric storage heaters. It’s very easy to use and the hand held thermostat is very useful too.”

Councillor Peter Richards, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services and Health, said:

“With the summer weather approaching, heating your home may be the last thing on your mind. But this is a perfect time to get a new boiler fitted in time for the winter.

“We believe that everyone deserves to live in a warm home and we are fully committed to ensuring people are able to afford the energy they need.

“I’d encourage anyone who thinks we could help to get in touch – and for residents to think of any friends or family members who could benefit from the Warm Homes Fund.”

The Warm Homes Fund was established by National Grid, and is administered by Affordable Warmth Solutions to support local authorities to address some of the issues affecting fuel poor households. 

For more information and to apply, visit: www.npt.gov.uk/warmhomesfund . If you are unsure if you meet the criteria, contact the Housing Renewals Team on 01639 686504 or email renewalarea@npt.gov.uk .