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Two thousand households receive cost-of-living energy support

Government looks to expand eligibility requirements so more can apply

Two thousand homes on the Isle of Man have benefitted from support as part of government's Energy Efficiency Scheme.

The system was set up earlier this year as a cost-of-living aid - aiming to make homes more economically viable.

As many as 10,000 LED lightbulbs have been handed out and 5,000 applications for loft insulation have been submitted.

Eligibility requirements mean only those on a combined household income of £50,000 or less will be considered.

But Environment, Food and Agriculture Minister Clare Barber says they're looking to open up the scheme to more people in future:

Two thousand homes equates to 5.3 per cent of the Island's occupied households according to the 2021 census. 

A new 'energy doctor' service is also being introduced - residents can apply for an expert to visit their home to help them implement cost-saving measures.

Julia and Ryan are two energy doctors who gave Manx Radio's Christian Jones their top-tips for saving money:

Residents interested in applying for a free energy doctor consultation can email energysave@gov.im or call 0808 1624276.

DEFA Minister Clare Barber told Manx Radio only households on a combined income of £50,000 or less are eligible, but that's something she would like to see increased to £60,000.

Those falling outside this bracket can instead look for support under the 'Green Living Grant'.

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