Written question WQ94652
- Asked by
- Andrew RT DaviesConservative
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 4 days
Question
Has the Cabinet Secretary given any consideration to making financial support available to over-65s who will lose their winter fuel allowance for installing solar panels on their main property?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government
On 10 September 2024, the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip wrote to every Member of the Senedd and every Welsh Member of Parliament to let them know about the targeted support we are giving to people who need it most. This included information on claiming Pension Credit which will ensure pensioners will receive winter fuel payments this winter.
The installation of solar panels are not appropriate for all homes and lower cost options such as loft insulation and draft proofing can reduce energy use significantly. Our Climate Action Wales website includes top tips on home energy.
Our support services start with advice from a professional on the most appropriate intervention. Everyone in Wales can access free energy efficiency advice through our Nest helpline on 0808 808 2244 (Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm) which can provide information on eligibility criteria for various schemes.
People over 65 may be eligible for our targeted support packages through our Warm Homes Nest scheme, Green Homes Wales loan scheme or UK Government schemes such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, ECO4 or the Great British Insulation Scheme.