The government’s Warmer Kiwi Homes programme has estimated that 6750 households throughout Otago could be eligible to receive 80% to 90% of the cost of approved insulation.
Of the potentially eligible homes, about 490 were in South Dunedin and about 540 were in Mosgiel.
Kaitangata also had a high proportion of eligible homes, estimated to be 156.
Warmer Kiwi Homes manager Henry Nepia said an insulated home was a warmer, drier and healthier home.
"More than 2000 retrofits in Otago have been part-funded by Warmer Kiwi Homes since 2018 and we want more families to benefit from this programme."
The Warmer Kiwi Homes programme is administered by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority and was designed for owner-occupied homes built before 2008 in lower-income areas.
It was a "great time" of the year to apply to the programme, as wait times to be accepted were far shorter, he said.
"Your whānau could be enjoying a cooler house this summer as well as a warmer, drier house that will be much cheaper to heat next winter."
He encouraged Otago homeowners to ensure they checked their eligibility for Warmer Kiwi Homes grants.
Otago Community Trust and Central Lakes Trust were offering $345 towards the cost of new heating appliances eligible for a grant.
Chief executive Jemma Adams said a positive impact had been seen in Otago communities due to insulation and energy-efficient heating.
"Living in a warmer, drier home has flow-on effects for businesses and schools in the area, with employees and students taking fewer sick days because they’re less susceptible to respiratory illnesses associated with cold, damp living conditions."
