Bristol City Council has today signed a deal that aims to provide a dramatic improvement in the energy efficiency of the city’s homes. Over the next four years, Climate Energy will visit every property in the city and offer householders an energy efficiency survey. George Ferguson, Mayor of Bristol said: “This is a major move to bring the benefits of energy saving measures to all Bristol citizens. We have teamed up with energy efficiency experts, Climate Energy, to deliver one of the most ambitious programmes in the country. By working systematically across the whole city, door to door over the next four years, we can give the opportunity to every household to benefit from improved health and comfort and lower fuel bills.

“As we approach our year as European Green Capital this a great example of the practical measures we are taking to make the city more sustainable in a way that benefits all residents.”

Cllr Gus Hoyt, Assistant Mayor for Neighbourhoods added: “This is a massive scheme which will make a real difference to people all over Bristol. It will help create a fairer city by actively tackling energy poverty and rising fuel costs. Bristol is a leading example when it comes to increasing energy efficiency in our neighbourhoods, and this is especially fitting ahead of taking on the mantle of European Green Capital.”

Properties found to be leaking heat will qualify for incentives to help pay for insulation measures such as solid wall insulation, cavity wall insulation, loft insulation and double glazing. Householders on lower incomes may also receive help to replace old boilers with new energy efficient models or install renewable technology.

Andrew Holmes, Managing Director of Climate Energy believes the partnership will make a major difference to the city and its people.

He said: “Bristol is a shining example of just what can be achieved with the right vision and funding. This work will ensure the city remains at the forefront of energy efficiency and responsible urban energy management. We will be able to cut people’s energy bills, keep the vulnerable warm and make inroads on the city’s carbon footprint. We also expect to create around 50 new jobs in the Bristol area over the next few months to deliver this programme.”

Bristol aims to become the most sustainable city in the UK and recently won the title of European Green Capital for 2015. A £95 million energy efficiency package was announced earlier this year and the Bristol Green Deal is the latest initiative in that drive to improve the city’s green credentials.

Fuller details of the Bristol Green Deal will be launched in September. People can register their interest in the scheme by emailing energy.efficiency@bristol.gov.uk or calling 0800 107 4100.