Homes get external wall insulation

Energyworks advisers Christopher Bleakley, Billy Turner and Kathryn Barningham

The first of 80 Rochdale homes are getting wrapped in external wall insulation as part of a package of energy efficiency support for residents.

Energyworks,a partnership between Groundwork and Rochdale Borough Council, is helping residents be warmer, healthier and better off at home. The support offered ranges from behaviour change advice around saving energy in the home to the installation of external wall insulation.

Winnifred-Norma Buxton, a resident who has benefitted from Energyworks support, is impressed with the support given.

Winnifred-Norma said: “I am very happy with the work on the house and the look of the property from the exterior. I now feel able to better control my fuel bills.”

Working with Rochdale Borough Council and contractor Caribou, Energyworks advisors have been able to work on a street by street basis. Staff have been advising residents and explaining about the cost incentives for the installation of energy efficient measures.

Through the scheme residents have been able to access funding from the Green Deal Communities Fund of up to £6,000 towards the cost of energy saving improvements to their homes.

Isabel Farnell, Energyworks Manager, said: “UK homes are amongst the least energy efficient in Europe and we have one of the highest rates of fuel poverty. Energyworks is all about providing friendly support to help residents out of fuel poverty. Having a warm home is one of the most important aspects of having a happy, healthy life.”