AN incentive scheme to help Islanders switch to low-carbon heating systems has been launched as part of a series of government measures designed to reduce Jersey’s carbon emissions.
Electric flow boilers, electric storage heaters, panel heaters and air source heat pumps are all available via the scheme, which enables eligible homeowners to access up to £5,000 match funding.
This means for every pound of grant funding awarded, the property owner must also be spending a pound of their own money on the project.
The move, which aims to help Islanders to switch from fossil fuel heating to low carbon systems, forms part of the Carbon Neutral Roadmap approved by the States Assembly last year.
A total of £5.7 million pounds was allocated from the Climate Emergency Fund to provide incentives to support 1,000 properties to switch from fossil fuel boilers to low carbon heating systems, by the end of 2025.
Homeowners interested in the scheme can contact one or more approved contractors, listed online at cqs.je.
Once they have accepted a quote, their chosen contractor will submit an application on their behalf to Jersey Electricity who are administrating the scheme.
The grant funding is paid directly to the approved contractors.
Assistant Environment Minister Hilary Jeune, who has responsibility for energy and climate change, said: ‘The heating sector is one of the highest contributors to Jersey’s emissions. It’s therefore a priority to support Islanders with the move away from oil and gas heating and we think this incentive will make the difference for many people and give a nudge towards low carbon options.’
She noted that the Carbon Neutral Roadmap also includes a policy that no new oil or gas boilers will be allowed to be installed in Jersey from 2026.
‘This current incentive supports those wanting to make that switch early and also helps us build the skills and capacity within the market to be able to meet increased future demand for low carbon heating systems,’ she continued.
‘As well as the cost of installing new equipment, we’ve recognised that running costs are an issue for many Islanders, and therefore energy efficiency measures in homes will also be eligible for support for those switching away from fossil fuel heating systems.’
Low-income homeowners who meet the scheme criteria will be able to access £10,000 worth of support without the need to match fund.
To qualify as a low-income homeowner, an Islander must be in receipt of one or more the following existing Government benefits at the point of applying for the scheme:
– income support
– cold weather bonus
– pension plus
– health access scheme
Alternatively they can be over the age of 65 and – excluding the value of their primary residence – have savings, belongings, investments and property under the value of:
– £30,000 if living alone
– £50,000 if married or co-habiting
