Affordable Warmth
**Please note as of 1st September 2023, Ards and North Down Borough Council will no longer be a delivery partner of the Affordable Warmth Scheme. Applications must now be made directly to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. Details below.
What is the Affordable Warmth Scheme?
The Affordable Warmth Scheme is the Department for Communities’ Scheme for addressing fuel poverty in the Private Sector. It is delivered across Northern Ireland on behalf of the Department by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
What Help is Available?
The Scheme offers a range of prioritized energy efficiency measures including:
- Loft and Cavity Wall insulation
- Installation/upgrade of heating systems
- Boiler replacement*
- Replacement of single glazed windows
- Provision of Solid Wall insulation
*For Householders with children under 16 years old, or who receive Disability Living Allowance/Personal Independence Payment or are aged Over 65 and have an existing boiler that is at least 15 years old.
Who is Eligible for Assistance?
You may be entitled to help under the Scheme if you:
- own your own home and occupy it as your sole or main residence, or
- rent from a Private Sector landlord, and
- have a total gross annual household income of less than £23,000
How do I apply?
From 1 September 2023 the Affordable Warmth Scheme will become an application-based scheme. This means applications for the scheme must be made directly to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
NI Energy Advice Service
From 1 September 2023, please contact the NI Energy Advice Service on freephone 0800 111 4455 or complete the online form available from The Housing Executive - Energy Query (nihe.gov.uk)
This service offers free, impartial energy advice to all households across Northern Ireland, including information on:
- Improving energy efficiency in your home
- Heating your home more efficiently
- Managing your fuel bills
- Switching your energy (electricity and gas) provider
- Making savings through the NI-wide Oil Buying Network
- Renewable energy options – solar, air/ground source heat pumps, etc.
Eligibility for the Affordable Warmth Scheme
If you appear to be eligible for the Affordable Warmth Scheme, the NI Energy Advice Service will advise you of the next steps.
Please note, a completed application does not guarantee a grant will be approved - the Affordable Warmth Scheme is currently experiencing a high demand and final approval for grant-aid remains subject to funding being available.