Boiler replacement scheme extended

The Boiler Replacement Scheme, which was due to end on 31 March 2015, has received a fresh injection of funding, meaning it will now run until March 2016.   Since launching in 2012. the scheme has helped to replace boilers in 18,500 homes.  The scheme is available to homeowners who earn less than £40,000 annually and have an old, inefficient boiler.

“The extension of the Boiler Replacement Scheme underlines my commitment to supporting people to reduce their energy costs and to maximise the energy efficiency of their homes. It has helped many households and I want it to help many more.” Social Development Minister Mervyn Storey

Households who wish to apply should contact the Housing Executive for information on 03448 920 900 or by email.

Help for homeowners and private tenants affected by fuel poverty

Although the Boiler Replacement Allowance is only available to homeowners, there are other grants available to assist homeowners and private tenants affected by fuel poverty.

Each year the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP) publishes details of schemes available to help alleviate fuel poverty amongst low income households in the private sector.  This year's schemes can be downloaded from our website and details of the new schemes should be available from May.  Funding for these schemes is limited and is often used up by the time winter comes, so clients who are suffering from fuel poverty should be encouraged to enquire about these schemes as soon as the list for 2015/16 is published. 

The Affordable Warmth Grant can also provide assistance to private homeowners and to private tenants who are living in fuel poverty.  However, landlords of any properties benefitting from this scheme will be required to pay 50% of the cost of any improvements. 

More information on fuel poverty in Northern Ireland

Christine Liddell, Professor of Psychology and Distinguished Community Fellow at the University of Ulster in Northern Ireland, recently co-authored an evidence based audit titled Fuel Poverty in Northern Ireland's Private Sector.