The Green Deal is a government initiative that allows you to make energy-saving improvements to your home or business without having to pay all of the costs up front. So, how exactly does the Green Deal work?

First you’ll need to get an assessment and see if you qualify. You may also be able to claim back money from the government if you make energy saving improvements to your home under the Green Deal. The work will be paid back in instalments through your electricity bill.

Possible energy-saving improvements include:

• insulation (e.g. loft or cavity wall insulation)
• heating
• draught-proofing
• double glazing
• renewable energy technologies (e.g. solar panels or wind turbines)

Taking advantage of the Green Deal will be more difficult for tenants, landlords and those living in social accommodation, as they will need to seek permission.

There may also be alternative sources of funding depending on where you live. The Scottish Government’s Energy Saving Trust manages a Green Homes Cashback scheme which also allows homeowners to claim up to £1200 to install energy efficient upgrades to their homes.