Written question WQ93641

We have a number of residential decarbonisation schemes that cover all housing tenures in Wales. We also work closely with the UK government to promote schemes that cover Wales such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

Social landlords are supported through the Optimised Retrofit Programme (ORP), a test and learn programme aimed at developing capability and a decarbonisation knowledge base in Wales. This programme aims to develop our understanding of how to undertake retrofit effectively and cost efficiently, develops local supply chains and creates job opportunities across Wales. Running since 2020, the programme has represented a c£290 million commitment to decarbonisation and will result in the retrofit of 27,000 homes.

The ORP investment sits alongside Major Repairs Allowance funding and Dowry gap funding (for local authorities and large-scale voluntary transfers) of £108 million per annum. These funding pots can be combined with other social housing funding such as the Energy Company Obligation Scheme and are there to support social landlords to meet their commitments under the Welsh Quality Housing Standard 2023.

Warm Homes Nest scheme supports low income households who own their homes or live in private rented accommodation, with £30 million committed this financial year. This programme’s focus on energy efficiency and low carbon heating solutions aims to tackle the twin objectives of fuel poverty and emissions reduction. The private rental sector can also access funding through Leasing Scheme Wales with £1.3m committed to support decarbonisation through this programme in the 24/25 financial year.

We are currently working with the Development Bank of Wales to develop a finance product for homeowners to access low cost finance to undertake decarbonisation works, we are working to launch a pilot of this scheme later this year.

Anyone in Wales can access advice about available funding and the eligibility through the free Nest helpline.