Tuesday 1 July 2014

Free insulation for low-income Taupo households

Low-income Taupo households at risk from health conditions related to cold, damp housing can now get access to free insulation.

The Government programme Warm Up New Zealand: Healthy Homes is on offer in the Taupo district following a recent tender process, where insulation service providers were awarded contracts to deliver the Government programme in the region.

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), which runs the programme, says free ceiling and underfloor insulation will be available to people with a Community Services Card if there are children under 17 years, adults over 65 or people with high health needs living in the home.

General Manager Residential Robert Linterman says the offer is also available to landlords of eligible tenants and he urges landlords to take up the offer.

“An insulated home is drier, warmer and easier to maintain.”

Mr Linterman says the Warm Up New Zealand: Healthy Homes programme can be offered at no cost to eligible households because third party funders have come forward to top up the Government funding.

He says a warm, dry home with well-installed insulation is healthier and easier to heat.

“Well-installed insulation can mean fewer GP and hospital visits and fewer days of work and school.”

Mr Linterman says the number of houses insulated in the Taupo district will depend on demand but 16,000 homes will be insulated nationally through the Warm Up New Zealand: Healthy Homes programme over the next year.

To find the service providers offering insulation in the Taupo District, visit www.energywise.govt.nz

Note to Editors:

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) is the Crown agency that encourages, supports, and promotes energy efficiency, energy conservation, and the use of renewable energy in New Zealand. EECA provides information to households through ENERGYWISETM www.energywise.govt.nz and to businesses through EECA BUSINESSTM www.eecabusiness.govt.nz

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