There are currently five main schemes operating that potentially offer financial help to local householders wishing to improve the energy performance of their homes:

Feed in Tariff

For people who install PV, wind or hydro schemes generating renewable energy, the government has set up the Feed in Tariff which guarantees annual payments of up to 41p per unit generated and 3p for each returned to the grid. All guaranteed for 25 years.

See the Energy Saving Trust website for more

Renewable Heat Initiative

Though the details of this government scheme have not been announced, it is likely to involve payments for all heat generated (eg solar panels and heat pumps) and to cover many years to generate returns of 6-12%. Our advice is to consider delaying investment decisions until more details are published.

See the Energy Saving Trust website for more

Warm Front scheme

This government scheme is for householders on benefits and/or with children or older people in the house. It covers loft insulation, draft proofing, cavity wall insulation, water tank insulation, central heating and glass fronted fires. Grants up to £6000.

See the Warm Front website for more

Cocoon

A non-profit organisation will make sure that you only pay £175 for your loft insulation. It will give you five installers to choose from. It can also arrange cavity wall insulation. The current offer will change on 31 March 2011.

See the Cocoon website for more

Free insulation via your own supplier

If you are a customer of one of the major gas or electricity suppliers you may be able to access their free insulation scheme. In some cases this is discounted. Check on your energy bill or on the web.

See also the Energy Saving Trust website