Thursday November 12th 2026
Photo by Vivint Solar (Unsplash)
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Homeowners in East Lothian are being encouraged to apply for grants to help fund energy-saving improvements to their properties.
East Lothian Council’s Home Energy Team has Scottish Government funding available to help residents make their homes warmer, more energy efficient and cheaper to run.
The grants can be used towards a range of improvements, including solar panels and battery storage, cavity and external wall insulation, and loft insulation.
The council is prioritising homes in Tranent and Prestonpans during the current financial year, although enquiries from homeowners in other areas are also welcome.
The Home Energy Team will support residents throughout the process, from identifying the most suitable improvements for their property to arranging funding and work through trusted contractors.
Councillor Andy Forrest, Cabinet Member for Housing and Property Maintenance, said: “This is a great opportunity for homeowners to really improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
“Residents the team has worked with have reported saving up to £2,000 a year when opting for measures that include the solar panels and battery storage option.
“East Lothian Council has declared a Climate Emergency and supporting residents to save energy is one of the aims of our Climate Change Strategy. All these measures help residents to achieve a warm, comfortable home while reducing their carbon footprint and saving money in this time of rising living costs. I’d encourage as many people as possible to check their eligibility and get in touch with the team.”
Homeowners may qualify if they meet one or more of the following criteria:
– Own their property.
– Live in a Council Tax band A to C property.
– Have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below.
– Spend more than 10 per cent of their net income on fuel costs.
The council said residents who do not know their property’s EPC rating can ask the team to check it for them.
Net income is calculated by deducting childcare, energy and mortgage costs from monthly income. Assistance is also available for those unsure how to work this out.
An information event will take place at the Fraser Centre, Winton Place, Tranent, on Thursday, November 19, from 6pm to 9pm.
The deadline for applications for this round of funding is May 31, 2027.
Homeowners can contact East Lothian Council’s Home Energy Team for further information and to check their eligibility.
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