KASH in and stay warm this winter

With the nights drawing in and the recent rise in fuel prices adding an estimated £73 annually to the average gas and electricity bill, there has never been a better time to save money and keep warm this winter by taking advantage of the KASH scheme and insulating your home.

An estimated 35% of a house's heat is lost through the walls and 25% through the roof and through the KASH scheme, which is run by the Kent Energy Centre, for a limited period of time residents can make the most of special offers on loft and cavity wall insulation.

Loft insulation is available from £100 and cavity wall insulation from £125. However, once these are installed it is estimated that residents can save up to £200 every year on fuel prices.

In addition, grants of up to £1,500 are available to residents who own or privately rent their home if they receive certain qualifying benefits, if they have children or are over 60. This grant will provide an assessment of the best energy efficiency measures for their property and then pay for the installment of a range of facilities, including insulation, draught proofing and room heaters..

Cllr Carol Clark, Cabinet member with responsibility for housing improvements, says: "Keeping warm at home over the winter can sometimes be a struggle for the elderly and vulnerable and it is vital that everything is done to ensure that residents are not suffering because of the cold weather over the coming months. In fact, by taking steps to improve the energy efficiency of your home, you won't only be keeping warm, in the long run you'll also save money on fuel bills."

There are a number of measures that everyone can take to keep warm at home. These include drawing your curtains at dusk to cut down on draughts, wearing several layers of clothing which are more effective than one thick one, having at least one hot meal a day and drinking regular hot drinks.

To find out more about energy efficiency or to apply for grant, contact the Kent Energy Centre on 0800 358 6669.