A North Herts councillor has urged residents to check whether they may be eligible for free home improvements that would reduce their energy bills.

Funding is being provided by the government for improvements including better insulation, solar panels and updated heating systems.

It is part of the Sustainable Warmth scheme, in which both North Herts Council and Stevenage Borough Council are taking part.

Households may be eligible for a grant if their pre-tax income is below £30,000 per year and their property has an Energy Performance Certificate rating of D or below.

Improvements would help reduce the size of energy bills, which have soared so far this year.

Councillor Sean Prendergast, deputy executive member for housing at North Herts Council, said:

“With the energy crisis and fuel costs at an all-time high, the Sustainable Warmth scheme is a fantastic opportunity for residents to improve their homes, save money on their energy bills while also helping to reduce carbon emissions.

"If you think you might be eligible, please do apply, there is a short form on our website to check.”

North Herts Council has said it will contact residents who it believes are likely to qualify for support.

Stevenage residents can also apply for support on Stevenage Borough Council's website.

The deadline for households to apply is December 30.