Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has opened a 12-week public consultation on the proposed Warm Healthy Homes Fund.

The scheme targets low-income households in the private rented and owner-occupier sectors. It will apply a fabric-first approach that prioritises insulation and ventilation before heating upgrades or renewable technologies.

The fund forms part of the Warm Healthy Homes Strategy 2026-36, which Lyons introduced in February to address fuel poverty.

Revised eligibility criteria, higher grant limits, low-carbon measures, consumer protections and quality standards are among the elements open for comment.

Feedback will shape the final design ahead of the scheme's launch. One online and two in-person events are planned during the consultation period, which closes on 19 August 2026.

Pat Austin of National Energy Action NI and Nigel Brady of Bryson Energy welcomed the consultation and urged participation to ensure support reaches those most in need.

Nuala Toman of Disability Action said disabled people are disproportionately affected by fuel poverty and called on disabled people and families to respond.