Cumbrian Councils have been awarded £11.8 million from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to make fuel-poor homes more energy efficient.
Funded by the UK Government’s Warm Homes Local Grant, the three-year programme will benefit up to 800 homes across Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness by providing fully funded upgrades to improve energy efficiency and help cut household bills.
Works will be tailored to each household and focused on delivering energy efficiency measures such as loft insulation and solar PV. Other measures may also be installed, including more expensive options such as air source heat pumps, although these will be delivered in smaller numbers due to higher costs.
Eligible households are those with an energy efficiency rating of D to G, and either a total annual household income below £36,000 or a resident receiving a means-tested benefit.
Two companies have been appointed to deliver the work; Next Energy Solutions Ltd. in the Cumberland Council area and Procast Building Contractors Ltd. in the Westmorland and Furness Council area.
Councillor Judith Derbyshire, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Safety, said: “For many households, the cost of heating is a real worry, especially during the colder months, and this funding will help make a genuine difference. By improving insulation, upgrading heating systems and making homes more energy efficient, we can help people feel warmer, healthier and more comfortable while also protecting the environment.
“We want to ensure that as many eligible residents as possible come forward to benefit from this scheme. This is a fantastic opportunity to help local residents improve their homes, reduce energy costs and cut carbon emissions so I encourage anyone who thinks they might qualify to get in touch with their council and find out what support is available.”
Councillor Emma Williamson, Deputy Leader for Cumberland Council, said: "I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve done to secure over £11.8 million in funding through the Warm Homes Local Grant. This investment represents real progress in our fight against fuel poverty and will make a lasting difference to hundreds of families across our communities.
“Too many of our residents are living in cold, inefficient homes that cost a fortune to heat. This funding will help change that bringing practical improvements like better insulation and heating systems, while also supporting people’s health, wellbeing, and financial security.
“This is about more than just energy upgrades. It’s about fairness, dignity, and climate responsibility. It’s about showing what strong, local leadership can achieve when we focus on people and places first.
“We’re committed to making Cumberland a fairer, warmer place to live not just today, but for future generations. And this programme is a powerful step in that direction."
Eligible households can contact the council responsible for their area, either Cumberland or Westmorland and Furness Council, to find out what support is available to make their home warmer and cheaper to heat.
To find out if your property is eligible and register your interest contact:
Cumberland Council
Telephone: 0330 056 5698
Email: housing.energy@cumberland.gov.uk
Westmorland and Furness Council
Email: better.homes@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk
Telephone: 0300 373 3300