People living In Truro and Falmouth can now get up to £5,000 of energy-efficient home improvements funded by the government as part of a new scheme.

The Green Homes Grant will not only enable households to improve their energy efficiency and cut down on bills, but help protect the environment and jobs, livelihoods and the local economy by creating more work for local tradespeople.

The new scheme, which opened for business today, covers a range of energy-saving measures at home, including insulation for floors and roofs, double or triple-glazing and draught-proofing.

Under the terms of the Green Homes Grant, the government will offer vouchers to cover up to two-thirds of energy-efficient home improvements – worth up to £5,000.

The improvements mean families could save £600 a year on bills.

And Cherilyn Mackrory, MP for Truro and Falmouth, said she would encourage households to apply for the vouchers for the many benefits they will bring.

"I am delighted the government has introduced this scheme," Cherilyn said.

"Not only will more energy-efficient homes help families save money on their bills, but it will also help the environment too.

"With winter coming, anything we can do to make our homes warmer and more efficient is a real boost.

"And there are other benefits with this scheme too, such as providing more work for the local tradespeople who would carry out the work, helping to boost the economy.

"I hope as many people as possible across Truro and Falmouth sign up to this scheme and all the benefits and savings it provides."

The Green Homes Grant also offers vouchers up to £10,000 for low-income families and is available to some landlords as well as homeowners.

For full details about the Green Homes Grant, who is eligible and how to apply, click here.