Strategies are in the works at Eden District Council to prepare for the net zero carbon future.

The council was successful in lobbying Central Government for a portion of funding, marked out for Green Homes Grant Local Authority Delivery Schemes.

Phase one of their Green Homes Grant scheme was open to the public between October 1 2020 and September 30 2021 focussing on offering energy efficiency measures.

Eden's Green Homes Grant offers a technical assessment of the home's energy efficiency needs and access to "a reputable, trusted supply chain for installation of energy efficiency measures."

The insulation measures cover wall cavities, underfloor, roof space and the loft. Heating measures include Air Source Heat Pumps and Solar PV. Free energy measures up to £10,000 may be available under the grant.

The scheme is for owner occupied households only and those on an annual income under £30,000 gross plus an Energy Performance Certificate.

Green growth portfolio holder councillor Mark Rudhall said: "Phase One B, that was due to close in July but it's been extended to March next year. Phase two which Eden District Council have been leading a consortium on, we've just got a budget for that of £5 million.

"And we've put a bid in for phase three that's for just over £58 million to retrofit 600 homes."

"It's something we've committed to, it has to be done we can't wait any longer."

He said that green growth measures are all the more important given the energy crisis.

"There's all sorts of things going on for residents and businesses to try and help them get through this current situation."

The Liberal Democracy councillor said: "We made a commitment when we got into administration to tackle climate change. Covid struck and everything was put on the back burner because it was a case of keeping businesses and families afloat.

Local Authorities everywhere are looking to reduce their carbon emissions ahead of 2030 when it is hoped Britain will be net zero.

And Eden District Council is no exception with a number of campaigns to promote eco-friendly strategies.

The Greening Eden Businesses Grant is being offered to traders, supporting them to reduce emissions.

Councillor Rudhall said: "We had quite a lot of sceptics but as time's gone on we can see how weather patterns have changed, with COP26 and there's the likes of David Attenborough and Prince Charles telling people about climate change, the vast majority of people are on board with it."

The COP26 climate summit takes place in Glasgow between October 31 and November 12.

Details on support to go green can be found on the Eden District Council website.