Residents could get free energy-saving products to help cut bills

Households across Peterborough are being encouraged to check whether they could qualify for free energy-saving products, installed in their homes at no cost, as energy bills continue to put pressure on household finances.

Through the Local Energy Advice Partnership (LEAP), eligible residents can receive a free home energy visit, where an advisor can identify ways to reduce energy use and install a range of energy-saving measures.

During a visit, residents could receive free LED light bulbs, radiator reflector panels, draught-proofing strips, door and letterbox brushes, chimney draught excluders and remote-controlled plug sockets, depending on what is suitable for their home.

Free appliances could also be available. Eligible households may be referred to the LEAP Appliance Scheme, which can provide free replacements for certain old or inefficient appliances, including fridge freezers. Other products, such as air fryers, slow cookers and dehumidifiers, may also be available depending on eligibility, stock and the time of year.

Simple measures can help reduce wasted energy, prevent heat escaping and make homes more comfortable without residents having to spend a penny.

For example, switching to energy-efficient LED light bulbs could save a typical household around £45 a year, while draught-proofing windows and doors could save around £55 a year, according to Energy Saving Trust estimates.

And residents don't need to worry about installing the products themselves, as suitable measures can be fitted by a LEAP Home Energy Advisor during the free visit.

During a home energy visit, advisors can help residents understand their energy bills and tariffs, offer advice on heating and damp and mould, check whether they could be entitled to additional benefits and refer them to other grants and financial support.

This means that even households who don't need energy-saving products could still benefit from a free visit.

How can residents access the free support?

Green Energy Switch delivers LEAP home energy visits across Peterborough, South Cambridgeshire and Rutland.

Residents may qualify if they receive certain means-tested benefits or have a total household income below £31,000 a year, subject to eligibility checks.

Apply for a FREE LEAP home energy visit through Green Energy Switch at www.greenenergyswitch.co.uk/home-energy/.