04 July 2009With the recent increases in gas and electricity prices, saving energy in the home is becoming an increasingly important issue for householders.
So to help residents save money, and in order to work towards a greener future, Sevenoaks District Council is working with the Kent Energy Centre, to offer selected households a free visit from the energy doctor.
The types of advice on offer range from simple no-cost activities, such as checking to ensure that heating controls are being used correctly, to more in-depth assistance such as loft and cavity-wall insulation and central heating improvements.
The energy doctors, who will be visiting the District from 8 August to 2 September 2008, will also be able to provide residents with a range of complementary services, such as organising fire safety and benefit entitlement checks.
These free home visits are initially only available to selected residents, primarily the older and more vulnerable people and those on low-incomes. Letters will be sent to around 3,000 homes in the District in late July
Residents can also contact the Kent Energy Centre, whose trained advisors are able to offer similar services over the telephone, by calling freephone 0800 358 6669.
All residents can benefit from subsidised loft and cavity-wall insulation. Residents receiving qualifying benefits may also be entitled to free central heating, loft and cavity wall installation.
Cllr Carol Clark, the Council's cabinet member with responsibility for housing, says: “The energy doctor visits are a great chance for residents to find out how to make their homes more energy efficent and save money on their fuel bills. The scheme also increases residents' awareness of how they are affecting the environment, as well as the simple steps they can take in order to protect it.”
This new initiative is funded by Defra and supported by Sevenoaks District Council. The Kent Energy Centre is a not for profit organisation offering free and impartial energy efficiency advice to residents across the county.
Further information can be found on the Energy Conservation section of the Council website or by visiting the Kent Energy Centre website.
