Energy saving measures planned for council homes

Gas and electricity bills rose by 10% for many people in October

A programme of energy efficiency works on council-owned houses in a district of Surrey is being planned.

A total of 169 homes have been selected by Runnymede Borough Council (RBC) for improvements which include solar panels and external wall, cavity and loft insulation.

The council is investing £1.28m in the scheme, with another £1.25m pledged from central government grants.

A RBC spokesperson said: "Letters will be sent to tenants very soon and the works are likely to start in December."

Gas and electricity bills rose by 10% for many people in October.

Tenants in these homes could save up to £750 per year, according to council research.

Mike Smith, chair of the council’s housing committee, said: “We’re doing all we can to ease the continuing cost of living pressures on local people.

“It’s pleasing that as well as cutting bills, the work will also reduce the impact of our council-owned homes on the environment."

The council says it hopes its project will reduce carbon emissions, tackle fuel poverty and support green jobs.

A spokesperson said all the works funded by RBC would be paid for from rent payments made by tenants.

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