Joint Media Release: Woodhouse and Dean welcome Insulation Milestone
The Government’s initiative to help insulate New Zealand homes has been an outstanding success. Today we have reached the milestone of 150,000 homes insulated under Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart, said Dunedin based MP Michael Woodhouse and MP for Waitaki Jacqui Dean.
“Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart is making a real difference to people in Otago and throughout the country. To date 8,286 houses in Otago have been retrofitted under the scheme” Mr Woodhouse said.
“Each of those homes represents around two to three people so up to 24,000 people in Otago are now better off.
“Many of us get sick during winter with colds, flu, asthma, and allergies that proper insulation and heating can help prevent. Families here in Dunedin and throughout Otago can now keep themselves warmer, drier, and healthier throughout those cold winter months.”
Delivering better public services is one of National’s four key priorities and Ms Dean says insulating homes is a great example of this.
“Insulated homes are easier and cheaper to heat and keep at healthy temperatures. Warmer homes mean fewer visits to the doctor, and less need to take time off work or school,” Ms Dean said.
“The scheme is run by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority and offers funding to homes built before 2000 to help homeowners get ceiling or underfloor insulation. The programme is also a key part of our Relationship Accord with the Maori Party and our Memorandum of Understanding with the Green Party.
“I’m pleased that we have reached the milestone of 150,000 homes insulated under the scheme, and particularly delighted that over 8,000 Otago households are now living warmer and healthier lives,” Ms Dean said.
ENDS
