AQW 55544/11-16

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 15/03/2016
Answered On Date: 24/03/2016
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Social Development whether he will increase the number of homes targeted by the Affordable Warmth scheme.

Answer:

The number of homes which can be assisted by the Affordable Warmth Scheme depends on the budget available and the average amount spent on improving the energy efficiency of the home. The average spend per household in 2015/2016 was £3,900 (an increase from the £1,440 average spend under the former Warm Homes Scheme) and resulted in the delivery of multiple energy efficiency improvements including roof space and cavity wall insulation, new heating systems and replacement windows.

In 2016/17 it is anticipated that the Affordable Warmth Scheme will deliver at least 6,000 measures to 4,000 vulnerable households. The Affordable Warmth Scheme uses a targeted area based approach to identify vulnerable households most at risk of fuel poverty and encourage them to take advantage of the measures available.

My Department will continue to monitor demand for the scheme and keep the budget under review.