Our Better Energy and Environment Scheme, known as Community BEES, is a neighbourhood-based programme funded through the West Midlands Combined Authority, supported by more than £8 million of investment. The scheme focuses on reducing household energy bills, improving energy efficiency, and helping residents move out of fuel poverty.
The scheme is designed to make Brierley Hill in Dudley (the DY5 postcode), a more sustainable place to live in for all residents, it will also help to inform the development of other Net Zero Neighbourhoods across the borough.
Specifically, the scheme is offering free (100% fully grant funded) home energy improvements to 600 homeowners living in DY5. The aim is to make homes warmer, more comfortable, cost-efficient – reducing energy bills, and environmentally friendly. The scheme is also offering funding to homeowners living in other parts of Dudley borough – however in these areas there is an eligibility criteria as they are not part of the pilot scheme. For these areas, household income may have to be considered, along with the energy performance rating of the home, but homeowners in these areas are encouraged to get in touch to find out if they do qualify.
For the majority of homeowners in the DY5 post code there is no financial assessment, just an eligibility check regarding their home's energy performance rating, followed by a free no obligation survey. The scheme is run by Dudley Council, in partnership with Equans. Community BEES also has involvement from the University of Birmingham who are leading a related project that links net-zero policies with positive health outcomes, and they have been installing indoor and outdoor air quality sensors in the area.
What improvements are on offer?
- Installation of solar PV panels with battery storage
- Adding or improving home insulation – wall insulation and/or loft insulation
What are the benefits?
- Lower energy bills and lower costs.
- Modern comfort – enjoy a reliable system that keeps your home warm.
- Energy independence – Solar PV panels with battery storage allow you to generate and store your own electricity, giving you greater protection from rising energy prices.
- Greener living – reduce your carbon footprint and make your home more sustainable.
This is a fantastic opportunity at no cost to enjoy a warmer, more comfortable home, reduce energy bills, and make a positive impact on the environment.
Is this free?
The home energy improvements listed above are free and fully grant funded to most homeowners living in DY5 as this area is part of the pilot project. There is a check on the home’s energy performance rating (it must be D or below) then the improvements are fully funded. For homeowners living in other postcodes in Dudley borough there will be a check on the home’s energy performance rating and, in most cases, a financial assessment, then full funding may be provided. This is because the DY5 area is part of the overall project funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority.
To find out more or express an interest simply call the team on 01384 817086 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, or email winterwarmth@dudley.gov.uk.