Suffolk County Council to offer interest-free home energy loans

The big picture: The loans, available from November, will cover upgrades like insulation, solar panels, and heat pumps – helping homeowners save on energy bills and reduce carbon emissions.

• Repayments will be spread over a maximum of seven years at 0% interest.

• The scheme aims to make homes warmer, safer, and cheaper to run.

• It supports Suffolk's Climate Emergency Plan by increasing energy-efficient properties.

Why it matters: Energy-efficient homes retain heat better and use less energy, lowering bills and reducing carbon footprints.

What they're saying: Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality, said:

"This loan scheme will help hundreds of Suffolk residents to make their homes more energy efficient. It will put money back in their pockets, by saving on their energy bills."

He added: "We all have a responsibility to ensure homes can cope with the changes in climate, keeping people cooler in summer and warmer in winter, and ultimately reducing our carbon emissions."

How it works:

• The council is partnering with Lendology CIC, a social enterprise lender, to deliver the scheme.

• As loans are repaid, the money becomes available for new applicants.

• The £3 million funding comes from the council's County Deal negotiations with the previous government.

Between the lines: The scheme also aims to boost local green businesses by increasing demand for energy efficiency measures, supporting jobs and skills development.

What's next: Interested homeowners can register now at the Lendology website. The scheme officially opens in November.

The bottom line: This initiative offers Suffolk residents a chance to improve their homes' energy efficiency without the burden of interest, potentially saving money and reducing their environmental impact in the long run.