Understanding ECO Grants: Promoting Energy Efficiency and Reducing Fuel Poverty
ECO Grants, part of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme, are initiatives by the UK government aimed at reducing carbon emissions and addressing fuel poverty. The scheme requires major energy providers to offer assistance with energy-saving solutions. ECO4 Grants cover various areas such as loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, solid wall insulation, and boiler replacement or repair. Energy companies are responsible for installing energy-saving measures to help homeowners reduce their heating expenses. Their focus is on assisting low-income or fuel-poor households and those most vulnerable in keeping their homes warm. Energy companies have the freedom to select which energy-saving measures to implement, determine the funding amount, and choose the installers.
How does an ECO Grant work?
ECO4 provides funding for energy efficiency measures in British homes through medium and larger energy companies. Each obligated supplier has a specific target based on its share of the domestic energy market in the UK. These suppliers work in collaboration with installers to implement energy-saving measures such as loft or wall insulation and heating upgrades.
The Home Heating Cost Reduction Obligation (HHCRO) is a key component of ECO4. It mandates energy companies to promote the installation of energy-saving measures like insulation and heating systems.
Eligibility for ECO Grants:
To qualify for ECO Grants, you must own your home or obtain permission from your landlord if you are a tenant. Whether you receive energy from an obligated supplier or not, you can still benefit from ECO grants. It’s important to note that meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee that an energy provider or installer will implement an energy efficiency measure in your home.
Grant Amount and Eligibility:
The maximum government contribution for an ECO Grant is £5,000, covering up to two-thirds of the total cost of the chosen improvements. However, if you receive income-based or disability benefits, the government may cover up to £10,000 for green housing improvements. Non-benefit recipients may receive a voucher of up to £5,000, covering two-thirds of the cost of eco-friendly installations.
ECO Grants and Green Homes Grant:
If you have applied for an ECO Grant by March 31, 2021, you may be eligible for the Green Homes Grant as long as the measures covered by each grant are different. For example, you can claim the ECO Grant for loft insulation and the Green Homes Grant for cavity wall insulation.
Primary and Secondary Measures:
Under the ECO Grant scheme, primary measures must be installed using the voucher. Primary measures include insulation for solid walls, underfloor insulation, cavity wall insulation, park home insulation, pitched roof insulation, and room in roof insulation. Secondary measures such as hot water tank insulation, draught-proofing, double or triple glazing, and energy-efficient doors can be covered by the voucher once a primary measure has been installed.
How to Apply for an ECO Grant:
Consumer Rights is committed to assisting households in accessing ECO4 funding and the LA Flex Scheme to improve the energy efficiency of their homes and reduce fuel poverty. To apply for an ECO Grant, gather the required documentation, such as proof of income and benefits received. Contact Consumer Rights for assistance with eligibility and the application process. Complete the application form and submit it with the necessary documentation. If approved, an installer will assess your property and carry out the necessary improvements to make your home more energy-efficient.
Important Note:
Each ECO Grant voucher is specific to the measure and property applied for, and can only be used by the named applicant. The voucher is valid for three months from the issue date until August 31, 2021. All work must be completed satisfactorily and the voucher redeemed before the expiration
