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Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has unveiled £2.17 million to help more than 1,000 additional low-income households make their homes warmer and more energy efficient through the NI Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP), which is delivered by the Energy Saving Trust on behalf of the Utility Regulator.
The funding will support insulation and other energy-saving upgrades. It brings the Department for the Economy’s total investment in domestic energy-efficiency measures to over £5 million in the past three years.
Speaking in Coleraine, Minister Archibald said: "This funding will enable more than 1,000 low income households to install practical measures such as loft and cavity wall insulation. These improvements will help reduce energy bills, improve comfort and warmth, and lower carbon emissions.
"Over 1,600 homes have already benefited from £3.5million of additional support provided by my Department in the past two years. I am committed to ensuring that no one is left behind as we transition to a greener, more sustainable economy."
The Minister added that the investment will also provide a welcome boost to local businesses delivering energy-efficiency services.
Sammy Aiken, a Coleraine homeowner and beneficiary of the scheme, said: "Thanks to the scheme, I was able to have roof insulation installed without paying the £1,500 upfront cost. Our home feels warmer and more comfortable, and our energy bills have gone down - it's made a big impact for us."
Welcoming the additional funding, Peter Russell, Utility Regulator Executive Director - Price Controls, Networks and Energy Futures, said: "NISEP is about helping homes and businesses become more energy efficient, while also reducing carbon emissions. An average of more than 3,500 households have benefitted from NISEP funding annually in recent years.
"Since 2010 NISEP has invested £108million, which will achieve a benefit of £845million for both business and domestic customers in reduced bills.
"We are proud to continue administering NISEP in partnership with the Energy Saving Trust, to ensure energy efficiency support is provided to those who most need it."
