Making the switch from oil to gas heating is one of the best investments you can make for your home. It can cut energy bills, improve efficiency, and reduce your carbon footprint. But for many households in Northern Ireland, the upfront cost of a new heating system can feel like a barrier.
That’s where the Affordable Warmth Scheme comes in. Designed to support households who need it most, this government-backed grant can make a huge difference to families looking to upgrade their heating. If you’re considering a gas installation, here’s how the scheme can help.
What Is the Affordable Warmth Scheme?
The Affordable Warmth Scheme is a programme funded by the Department for Communities and delivered in partnership with local councils across Northern Ireland. Its main goal is to reduce fuel poverty by improving energy efficiency in homes that need it most.
Eligible households can receive financial support for a range of improvements, including:
- Gas heating installations
- Replacement boilers
- Loft and cavity wall insulation
- Heating controls
By targeting households with the lowest incomes, the scheme ensures that help goes where it is needed most.
Who Can Apply?
The scheme is means-tested, which means it’s designed to support those on lower incomes. In general, households with an annual income of less than £23,000 may qualify. Other factors, such as the current state of your heating system and your property’s energy efficiency, are also taken into account.
Each local council manages applications for its area. If you’re in Belfast or the surrounding region, you’ll be contacted directly if your home falls within the target area. However, you can also reach out to your local council for more information about how to apply.
How It Can Help with Your Gas Installation
Installing a modern gas heating system can feel like a big step, but the Affordable Warmth Scheme can ease the burden. Depending on your circumstances, the scheme can cover a significant portion of the cost of converting from oil to gas.
That means you don’t have to delay your upgrade or continue struggling with an inefficient oil system. Instead, you can enjoy all the benefits of gas heating, including:
- Lower energy bills
- Instant and reliable heat
- More efficient hot water
- A cleaner, safer alternative to oil
Combining with Finance Options
Even if the scheme doesn’t cover the full cost of your installation, there are still ways to make it affordable. At Safe Gas NI, we also offer 0% finance options to spread the remaining cost into easy monthly payments.
This combination of grant support and finance means that almost any household can make the switch to gas heating without worrying about a large upfront payment.
Why Choose Gas Now?
With oil prices continuing to rise and efficiency standards becoming more important than ever, now is the ideal time to make the move to gas. Not only will you notice the difference in your bills, but you’ll also enjoy greater peace of mind knowing you have a reliable, modern heating system in place for the years ahead.
Take the Next Step
If you think you may be eligible for the Affordable Warmth Scheme, or if you’d simply like to explore your options, our friendly team is here to help. We can guide you through the process, from checking eligibility to arranging your installation, so everything runs smoothly.
Ready to find out how the Affordable Warmth Scheme could fund your gas installation? Contact Safe Gas NI today for a free, no-obligation consultation.