Residents across the county are being urged to apply for funding for central heating as freezing temperatures hit this winter.

Gas distribution network SGN is providing eligible homeowners and private renting tenants with funding towards a gas connection and an A-rated central heating system via their Help to Heat scheme.

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Mains gas central heating will allow residents benefitting from the scheme to stay warmer while saving money on their fuel bills as gas central heating is three to four times cheaper than electric heating.

Residents currently using inefficient storage heaters, room heaters or fires could receive funding from the Help to Heat Scheme.

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Householders who receive certain benefits or have a low household income in relation to their energy bills may qualify for help.

In addition, residents will be eligible for funding if they are on a low income and are elderly, have young children, or have certain health conditions.

Banbury resident, David Smith, 65, received a fully funded gas connection and A-rated central heating system from the Help to Heat scheme having previously relied on electric storage.

He said: “My home is so much warmer, and just when I want it to be now it’s winter.

“My energy bills should be a lot lower now with all the improvements that have been made.”

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Marie Jones, fuel poverty stakeholder engagement manager at SGN, said: “If you or someone you know might struggle to stay affordably warm this winter, our Help to Heat scheme may be able to help and we’d urge you to get in touch.

“Through our Help to Heat scheme, we can help residents connect to a more affordable fuel to make their homes warmer and more comfortable.

“For households relying on solid fuel or electric storage heaters, the Help to Heat scheme is a route to cheaper fuel bills from a more efficient heating system.”

Those who think they may be eligible, or know someone off gas, are advised to call the Help to Heat team on freephone 0800 015 5174 or visit www.yesenergysolutions.co.uk

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