Greater Manchester Green Deal programme exceeds targets

Greater Manchester Combined Authority

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) has exceeded Government targets to become the first authority in the country to complete the Green Deal Communities programme.

1248 households in the city-region have received radical energy efficient improvements to their homes and the programme had been delivered within budget.

The programme assisted mainly fuel poor residents in Greater Manchester who live in homes with minimal thermal efficiency. Homes with solid walls which are not suitable for cavity wall insulation were specifically targeted for improvement.

Greater Manchester Mayor, Tony Lloyd said: “In Greater Manchester we want to make sure that all homes are energy efficient, this helps to keep homes warm, cuts energy bills and creates a better environment.

“I’m delighted that the Green Deal Communities programme has exceeded its targets and helped hundreds of residents with energy efficient home improvements.

“The GMCA is actively engaging with national and local providers and utility companies to source further funds so we can continue to assist households in Greater Manchester.”

Research from the Energy Saving Trust has highlighted that people living in cold homes are more likely to develop respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses. Over 900 homes, which were previously known as ‘hard to treat’ properties, have received external wall insulation. By adding external wall insulation residents can save on average approximately £260 from their annual fuel bills and homes can become significantly warmer, making every day household activities more comfortable.

Working with delivery partners, the programme has benefited residents from all ten Greater Manchester authorities. Local business was also supported through the scheme with locally sub-contracted installers delivering a number of specialist energy improvement measures.