In a bid to reach Government insulation targets, British Gas is now offering £50 to anyone who recommends a vulnerable family member, friend or neighbour for free loft and cavity wall insulation. In order to qualify as “vulnerable”, the referred individual must be on pension credit, certain income-related benefits or receiving a child tax credit, and have an income of less than £16,190. When the insulation has been installed, the referrer will then receive a further £50 and there is no limit to the amount of candidates they can put forward.
Aimed at helping half a million indigent households by next year, the scheme targets a demographic that the energy companies have found it hard to help in the past due to lack of communication. With the assistance of a referring third party, who could potentially earn hundreds of pounds, British Gas hopes to get in touch with those who will benefit most from the drive.
“With household budgets stretched we know that people are looking at ways to save money.” Jon Kimber, managing director of British Gas New Energy told the Guardian, “£1 in every £4 spent on heating is wasted due to poor insulation, so energy efficiency can have a massive impact.” The company believes that with the insulation installed, households could save up to £300 a year on heating bills.
With over half of Britain’s homes not properly insulated, a number of other companies are also offering similar schemes, with E.On paying £100 for each referral and Scottish & Southern Energy offers a £25 shopping voucher to anyone, even individuals who are not customers.
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