Will the Minister outline what consideration has been given to promoting low-cost loans and council tax allowances to cushion the expense of upgrading the housing stock to higher energy efficiency?
Innovative funding models will be needed to pay for the decarbonisation of homes , the costs of which cannot rest fully on Welsh Government. We know that decarbonising these homes is going to cost a significant amount and that the funding will need to come from a variety of sources – both government and private funding will be needed. We are bringing together a panel of experts from across the finance sector to work with us evaluating options and shaping those viable funding solutions.
My officials have been evaluating a variety of options for financing retrofit in the owner-occupied and private rented sectors. These incorporate both grant funding and repayable finance. The financial capacity of the end user will be utilised to help direct them to the most appropriate financing solution in the medium term.
Some of the models being considered include Property Assessed Clean Energy, in which the loan is linked to the property rather than individual, low interest loans, equity release loans and green mortgages. A grant mechanism may also be needed for lower income households. We are working with the Development Bank of Wales to ensure that we align offers and work in this space.