Healthy Homes

Healthy Homes is an energy efficiency and home insulation retrofit scheme that aims to improve the health and quality of living for Dunedin's low income residents. The DCC initiated the scheme in 2005 in partnership with the Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority (EECA), Whare Mahana Ltd and the Otago District Health Board.

Since 2007, EnergySmart has been administering the scheme with support from Aurora Energy, EECA, primary health organisations and the Otago Regional Council. It has grown to be an Otago-wide programme overseen by a regional governance group.

What the scheme could do for your home?

Where possible, the home will have insulation placed in the ceiling and under the floor, pipes lagged, cylinders wrapped and exterior door draughts stopped. This will depend on access in and around the home.

There is funding in the 09/10 budget to insulate only 140 Dunedin houses. This programme is now fully subscribed and the waiting list is long. Priority has been given to those already on our list, with a Community Services Card, and for those who are high users of the health system.

However, as of July this year EECA announced new subsidies for all New Zealand home owners and tenants with Community Services Cards.

If you would prefer to take advantage of the EECA subsidies now rather than wait, you can access the EnergyWise web site or contact a local supplier for more details. CSC holders are eligible for a 60% subsidy on insulation and $1200 off a clean heating appliance.

How to apply

This programme is now fully subscribed and the waiting list is long. Contact EnergySmart on 0800 777 674 to have your name added to the waiting list if you and your home meet the following criteria.

  • You own and live in the house in question.
  • You have a Community Services Card.
  • Are a high user of the health system.
  • You can pay the $500 application fee.

In July/August, those at the top of the existing list will be sent an application form and cover letter explaining the next stages of the process. After the details in your application have been confirmed, you will be sent a letter to let you know if your application has been successful. The project will begin in August 2009.

Last reviewed: 23 Jul 2009 9:44am

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Dunedin City Council