Member Article

Landmark energy efficiency scheme is heating up in County Durham

Sam and Mavis Bate are amongst the first people in County Durham to have their inefficient heating system replaced through Warm Up North, the new £200m landmark scheme from British Gas, Durham County Council, and eight other councils in the North East of England.

The scheme enables eligible residents¹ in the North East to benefit from funded or part-funded energy efficiency measures, including hard to treat cavity wall, solid wall and loft insulation, new ‘A-rated’ boilers, and boiler repairs, to help make their homes more efficient and reduce energy consumption.

The Bates, a retired couple who have been married for over 40 years and have three grandsons and a great grandson, were distraught after they were told by a private company that they would need to pay to have their old back boiler replaced.

Without the money to cover the unexpected payment Sam, 73, and Mavis, 69, were left feeling as though there was nowhere for them to turn for help. After reading about the new scheme they contacted Warm Up North for advice.

Within a matter of weeks, Sam and Mavis had a new ‘A-rated’ combi boiler and all new radiator valves installed as well as having their central heating system flushed through.

Sam, a former oil company contractor, said: “Without the help of Warm Up North I don’t know what we would have done, as we just wouldn’t have been able to afford to have had a new boiler fitted. The team was fantastic, they were very easy to deal with and the local contractors who completed the installation work have done a marvellous job.

“Our new combi boiler is much more efficient than our previous back boiler and we’re already feeling the benefits. When we turn the tap on we have instant hot water while our home is warmer and much more comfortable than it was previously.”

Jon Kershaw, head of Warm Up North, added: “Sam and Mavis’ situation can be all too common, but it is fantastic that since our launch North East residents are experiencing the benefits of having new heating measures fitted.

“Through our partnership with nine of the region’s local authorities, including Durham County Council, we will be able to help thousands of other eligible households to reduce their energy bills while making heating their homes more affordable.”

Cllr Neil Foster, cabinet member for regeneration and economic development at Durham County Council, said: “We are very pleased to be supporting the Warm Up North scheme, which is not only helping people in County Durham to make their homes warmer and cheaper to heat, it is also bringing significant investment and jobs to the region.

“I am delighted that people, like Mr and Mrs Bate, are already taking advantage of the scheme and look forward to seeing many more people in County Durham benefiting in the future.”

To find out more about how Warm Up North could help make your home more energy efficient call the team on free phone 0800 294 8073 or visit www.warmupnorth.com.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Warm Up North .