You must undertake a number of energy efficiency measures before you are eligible to apply for a Low Carbon Buildings Programme grant. These measures will ensure that you are minimising your energy requirements and therefore maximising the benefits from your microgeneration technology.

Before applying we require you to have:

1. insulated the whole of the loft of your home to meet current building regulations e.g. 270mm of mineral wool loft insulation or suitable alternative
2. installed cavity wall insulation (if you have cavity walls)
3. fitted low energy light bulbs in all appropriate light fittings
4. installed basic controls for your heating system to include a room thermostat and a programmer or timer

We recommend that you complete a home energy check to assess which measures are most suitable for your home. You can also call your local Energy Saving Trust advice centre on 0800 512 012 for guidance on energy efficiency measures and energy efficiency grants available in your area.

If you are unable to complete all of the required energy efficiency measures due to the suitability of your property you will still be able to apply for a grant as long as all reasonable energy efficient measures have been installed.

You may find the following energy efficiency information useful when planning your microgeneration project:

• free online home energy check tool
• searchable grants information database for householders
• The Energy Saving House