How much can I save with insulation grants?
Published 31 January 2019
Warmer Kiwi Homes - who has it helped and how.
The new insulation subsidies programme, Warmer Kiwi Homes, has helped over 3200 homeowners around NZ access affordable home insulation since it launched last year.
With additional contributions from community funders on top of the Government funding, quotes of $2000 - $6000 are reduced to just a few hundred dollars - and sometimes even less.
As the sole provider of the insulation grants in Wellington City, we were delighted to host an event in our EcoCentre last Tuesday to celebrate the programme and those involved who have helped us make such a difference to people's lives.
Attendees included Energy Minister Dr Megan Woods and the Green Party's Energy Spokesperson Gareth Hughes, representatives from our community funders and supporters, and a number of grateful homeowners for whom this coming winter will be warmer, drier and cheaper as a result of the funding.
That's why this event proved so rewarding for those involved. The homeowners got an opportunity to say their appreciation in person, and the politicians, community funders and providers were able to meet the people who had benefitted from their generosity and hard work.
How much can I save with insulation grants?
The benefits from being eligible for the insulation grants are substantial. With additional funding - which varies dependent on location - insulation quotes can be reduced by as much as 96%.
One of the homeowners who attended our event on Tuesday told Radio NZ how the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme has been a lifesaver. Rangi Ririnui-Cook and her daughter Dee would not have been able to afford the initial quote of close to $6000. After the insulation grant and contribution from a community funder, the quote was reduced to just $478.
Still not sure? How about this email from we received from Elaine from Upper Hutt...
“When I first saw the facebook ad, it said "how would you like your home insulated for under $100". I thought, yeah right !!!, but contacted you anyway... So I am absolutely thrilled with the quote…
And thank you again, I was nearly in tears when I saw the quote, as it is just so affordable, and will make for a much warmer and drier home,this winter, without hardship. You have made one 74yr old lady, very happy”
Thanks to the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme and the community funder, Hutt Mana Charitable Trust, Elaine's quote for ceiling and underfloor insulation was reduced from $2,480 to just $103.
On behalf of Sustainability Trust, we thank all of those behind the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme and all of the community funders (especially those who support us - Hutt Mana Charitable Trust, Wellington City Council and Electra) that make it possible for us to change lives like Elaine's and Rangi's. Thank you!
Thinking that even a few hundred dollars is a bit much all at once? You can even spread the payments over 12 months with our 0% interest repayment plan, reducing a $300 quote to just $25 a month.
If you or someone you know owns their own home and has a Community Services Card or lives in a low income area, get in touch today!