Other ways to improve your home energy efficiency
Changes to home energy efficiency funding schemes
The Great British Insulation Scheme is ending on 31 March 2026, and the Energy Company Obligation Scheme is ending on 31 December 2026. However, Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s (GMCA) 3 procured and approved installers (0800 Repair, ImprovEasy and Next Energy) no longer have access to funding for any new applications for either scheme.
As these national schemes are funded by energy companies and regulated by Ofgem, neither us nor GMCA is able to influence or extend this funding.
If you'd like to be notified about any future schemes, you can create an account on GMCA’s Retrofit Portal.
Connected for Warmth Programme
Homes across Greater Manchester can get a new central heating system fitted for free thanks to the Connected for Warmth Programme. To find out if you're eligible you can visit the Connected for Warmth website or call the Connected for Warmth team for free on 0800 029 4547.
Free home energy check
The Home Energy Check is a free online calculator to help you with ways to reduce your energy bills. Please note this will not produce an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
EPCs
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) tells prospective buyers about the energy performance of the house. This rating is awarded by an accredited Energy Assessor. They'll visit the property to collect the relevant data and create the certificate. Each Energy Performance Certificate includes an energy efficiency rating that indicates the overall efficiency rating of a home.
The higher the rating, the more energy efficient it is. It also indicates the potential for improvement.
For more information on EPCs, visit the GOV.UK website.
Smart meters
These give you more control of how much energy you use in almost real time for both electricity and gas. There are no upfront costs. Find out more by visiting Smart Energy.
Draught proofing
For more information read our draught proof leaflet (PDF 277Kb).
You can find information about how to draught proof your home on the Energy Saving Trust website.
Cavity wall and loft insulation
35% of heat loss in your home is through your walls and 25% through your roof.
You can find out how to reduce heat loss in your home on the Energy Saving Trust website.
Renewable energy
Renewable energy is produced from natural sources. For example; the sun, wind and water.
You can find information about renewable energy on the Energy Saving Trust website.
Damp and condensation
Poorly designed and installed measures can increase the risk of excessive condensation and mould growth. For more information read our damp and condensation leaflet (PDF 237Kb).