Two thousand free energy-saving light bulbs have been handed out by the government.
The LED lighting initiative, launched in July 2018, was designed to help those with low incomes to cut electricity bills and has so far helped almost 400 households to make an average saving of over £120 year.
During the initiative the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture and Manx Utilities made five energy-saving bulbs available for free to replace older less efficient bulbs.
Environment Minister Geoffrey Boot said: ’Residential properties are the largest contributor to carbon emissions in the Isle of Man and this initiative forms part of the island’s energy efficiency and climate change mitigation strategy.
’As the Isle of Man looks to do its part as a global partner to tackle climate change we must work together to achieve our goal of net carbon zero by 2050.
’For us to reach our target we need a just transition. Climate change isn’t just for those who can afford to make changes and those low-income households taking part will reduce emissions and save on energy bills. It is a win, win situation.’
Government figures show the homeowners benefiting from this initiative made a collective annual saving of more than £50,000 - while significantly reducing emissions.
LED bulbs use 80% less energy, last longer and are just as bright as traditional bulbs, but are more expensive to buy.
On average the switch can save more than £5 a year per bulb, depending on the type of bulb you replace, and how many hours it is in use.
To be eligible a member of the household must satisfy at least one of the following criteria:
In receipt of benefits i.e. income support, income- based jobseeker’s allowance, or employed person’s allowance
In receipt of attendance allowance, disability living allowance or incapacity benefit
Manx Utilities priority care register
Recipient of Foodbank resources
Recipient of town/village ’coal fund’ resources at Christmas
Household has inadequate number of light bulbs, reason cited being unable to afford new ones
Recipient of financial advice from Office of Fair Trading
Occupant aged 75 or more