For free advice on which scheme fits you, ring the NI Energy Advice Line on 0800 111 44 55.
Quick facts
- Now
- Affordable Warmth and NISEP
- NISEP
- 80% ring-fenced for vulnerable customers
- NISEP is paid for by
- A charge on all electricity customers
- From April 2027
- Warm Healthy Homes Fund (planned)
- Advice
- NI Energy Advice Line, 0800 111 44 55
Affordable Warmth
The main scheme for lower-income homeowners and private renters now is the Affordable Warmth Scheme, run by the Housing Executive. See Affordable Warmth. The old Boiler Replacement Scheme has closed.
NISEP
NISEP is funded from a sum of money collected from all electricity customers through a Public Service Obligation (PSO), and it is used to provide funding for energy efficiency schemes. 80% of the funding is ring-fenced for vulnerable customers in Northern Ireland. Schemes are run by approved providers, so ask the NI Energy Advice Line which are open.
The Warm Healthy Homes Fund
The Warm Healthy Homes Fund (WHHF) is being developed as the Department’s main fuel poverty and energy efficiency intervention for private sector homes, including owner-occupied and private rented properties.
It is planned to target lower-income households with a whole-house, fabric-first approach, with delivery from April 2027. Until then, apply to the schemes that are open now.
If someone at home depends on electricity or water
If you or someone in your home is dependent on a water supply or electrical equipment for daily care then you can sign up to a Care Register. The scheme is offered by both Northern Ireland Electricity Networks (NIE Networks) and Northern Ireland Water (NI Water). If you have a cut in supply, your contact details are prioritised, and you are told ahead of any planned outages.
This service is of particular benefit for people who rely on medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators, home dialysis machines and vital signs monitoring equipment. Contact NIE Networks Medical Customer Care and the NI Water customer care register separately.
Solar panels and heat pumps
There is no financial support available for homeowners who wish to generate their own electricity through domestic renewable technologies, such as solar panels. But under the Windsor Framework, installations of energy-saving materials, including solar panels and heat pumps, now benefit from a zero rate of VAT in Northern Ireland, as in Britain. NI Energy Advice gives free, impartial advice and can refer you to energy grants.
Common questions
What is replacing the Affordable Warmth Scheme?
The Warm Healthy Homes Fund, planned to start from April 2027.
Who can get NISEP help?
80% of NISEP funding is ring-fenced for vulnerable customers. Ask the NI Energy Advice Line which schemes are open.