WHAT ARE ENERGY UPGRADES?
From topping up your loft insulation to fitting a smart thermostat or upgrading old windows – energy upgrades are all about making your home or business more comfortable and less costly to heat and power.
They’re one of the simplest and most effective ways to cut carbon, save money, and feel the difference every day.
WHY UPGRADE?
Lower your energy bills
Use less energy to stay warm.
Stay comfortable all year round
A well-insulated home or business holds onto heat in winter and keeps cool in summer.
Cut your carbon footprint
The less energy you use, the fewer emissions you create.
Future-proof your home or business
Be ready for heat pumps, solar, and smart energy tech.
Get help with funding
Grants and schemes are available to cover the cost of some upgrades.
WHICH UPGRADES MAKE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE?
Insulation
Loft, cavity wall, and floor insulation keep the heat in where it belongs.
Draught-proofing
A quick fix that can make a big impact – seal gaps around windows, doors and chimneys.
Double or triple glazing
Modern windows reduce heat loss, block out noise, and boost comfort.
Smart heating controls
Smart thermostats, radiator valves and timers give you more control – and stop you wasting heat.
Hot water tank jackets and pipe lagging
Easy, low-cost upgrades to stop heat escaping from your system.
LED lighting
Use up to 90% less electricity than old bulbs – and last far longer.
Renewable energy systems
NOT SURE WHERE TO START?
You don’t have to do everything at once – and even small steps can make a big difference.
We recommend starting with a free, online Home Energy Assessment. This will show where your home is losing energy and help you plan your upgrades.
Try Homewise, our personalised local energy advice service.
CAN I GET HELP WITH THE COSTS?
Yes! Depending on your home, building, or income, you may be eligible for funding to cover all or part of the work. To find the latest grants and funding available head to our funding page below.
COMMON QUESTIONS
“I rent - so I can’t make upgrades, can I?”
If you rent privately, your landlord may be eligible for funding too. You can also share helpful info with them to get the ball rolling.
“It’s too expensive to insulate, is there help?”
Some insulation upgrades are fully funded – especially if your EPC rating is D or below.
“I live in an older home - does it even work?”
Yes! Older homes often benefit the most from upgrading and draught-proofing.
PLANNING PERMISSION
Many energy upgrades are considered Permitted Developments and so don’t require planning permission, particularly if they don’t affect the external appearance of your property. Planning permission is usually needed for properties in conservation areas or national landscapes, flats, and listed buildings. Always check whether planning permission is required before you start an upgrade project.
You can find a summary of the planning rules on the Planning Portal:
Further details are available on Peterborough City Council’s website