An update on my Green Homes Grant odyssey...

**WARNING** contains many hoops...

1/16

Knowing the scheme was coming I used the government website links and started my research in September.

I reckoned solar hot water was the best next step to reduce my carbon footprint.

2/16
I have basic double-glazing that needs upgrading before a new heating system but double glazing was out of scope unless you have single glazing.

I'm adding even more insulation to my loft at my own cost.

3/16
So, anyway, researching 'local' providers for solar water heating installation that are on the website list as allowed to do it under GHG: Three potentials.

First didn't respond and suspect was the wrong contact information was on the website.

4/16
Second couldn't do a quote without a visit and the next time they could would be weeks and weeks after the scheme was meant to open for applications.

5/16
Third took a load of information, including pictures and gave a quote that seemed really good. Around £5k total. I used this and submitted an application 30th September.

6/16
Then.... nothing.

10th November finally get a message saying vouchers should be out soon but many applications are short on detail. If you think that is you, get more detail (doesn't say what).

7/16
18th November - another email. Yay! Scheme extended so work doesn't have to be done by end March 2021. This email lists stuff they want in a quote. I go back to my patient chosen supplier and they provide a very detailed quote that meets the list. Send that in.

8/16
In between I've had a lovely conversation with the installing engineer about what to expect and what they will do. Feel confident it will be a good thing.

9/16
3rd December email. We will be doing an installation inspection. We will contact you within 5 days.

OK.

10/16
24th December email. We will be doing an installation inspection. We will contact you in 5 days.

Oooooookaaaaayyyy.....

11/16
6th January. A text from the inspector. No reference codes, just asking if 11th January works.

12/16
7th January - email. Booked for 11th January. Inspector will show ID.

13/16
11th January, inspector comes. No ID. It is his first ever of these. He isn't sure what to do. He asks no questions. He takes some pictures and puts them in an app. The same pictures I sent for my quote in September. He leaves.

14/16
I've no idea what happens next. No information on what was needed from the inspection. Can't understand why I couldn't supply those images and avoided the cost to taxpayer and risk involved with someone coming into my home.

15/16
Anyone had a smoother experience? Or even had their voucher and the work done?

16/16

More from Government

Let me take a stab at this after years of reporting on Marine One, HMX-1, Continuity of Government, etc. None of this is definitive, but it could help explain what folks are seeing:

1.) HMX-1, which flies the VH-3D and VH-60N 'White Top' helicopters used to move... 1/X


the President and VP around, those helos being called Marine One or Two when either is onboard, need to train. The urban landing zones, including WH and VP Residence, are not simple to get in and out of. So, crews need some currency training. They are not just tasked with... 2/X

moving POTUS and VP to get them around the region and to Andrews AFB for long-haul flights, they are essential to Continuity of Government operations. This means that if a threat were to emerge, they need to be ready to snatch POTUS and VP in minutes. This is partially... 3/X

why they have a full forward operating location at Naval Support Activity Anacostia, just 3 miles from the WH. As such, practice is important and considering the state of things, it is critical now more than in any recent memory. 4/X

2.) Considering what happened last week, including mobs of Trump supporters screaming in unison to hang the VP for doing what the constitution states, absolutely despicable in every way, security has been tightened just as it has been all over. Using the helicopters instead.. 5/X

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