RESIDENTS are being offered interest-free loans by East Hampshire District Council to kit out their homes with the latest energy-saving improvements.

The loan scheme is available for on a first-come, first served basis for home-improvement works that minimise energy use and reduce carbon emissions.

The money can be used for insulation, replacement boilers, solar panels, double glazing and other energy-saving measures. The council is working to improve environmental standards for homes in the town, new and old, and is providing interest-free loans for residents in the area to help homeowners to cut fuel costs, cut carbon and save money.

In 2010 the Government provided East Hampshire District Council with money to offer loans for home improvements. Now those loans are being repaid by householders, the money is available once again.

Adam Carew, the council’s energy portfolio holder and a town and county councillor, said: “It’s great news to be able to recycle funds allocated back in 2010 to improve the energy efficiency of our homes.

“This money is available again and, due to the recycling nature of the fund, more residents now, and in the future, will benefit from a loan to help pay for home improvements.”

• Register at www.easthants.gov.uk