Updated: Sep 26, 2023
Amidst the energy crisis in the UK, there’s a high chance that you, like many, have searched for ways to reduce your energy costs and have come across the ECO4 scheme. Contrary to what you may believe, this is not a scam, but a legitimate scheme that is backed by the government, aiming to provide free energy saving measures to vulnerable households to improve the energy-efficiency of their homes.
Read on below as we answer some of the common questions associated with the ECO4 scheme for you.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for ECO4, your property must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E, F or G. You must also be a recipient of at least one of the benefits in the following list:
● Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
● Income Related Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
● Income Support (IS)
● Pension Credit Guarantee
● Working Tax Credit (WTC)
● Child Tax Credits (CTC)
● Universal Credit (UC)
● Housing Benefit
● Pension Credit Savings
Where Does the Money Come From?
Many people believe that the ECO4 scheme is a government-funded grant, however this is not the case. In actuality, the government requires major energy suppliers to fund the scheme as part of their obligation (with ECO4 standing for Energy Compliance Obligation) to enhance energy efficiency across the UK and reduce national carbon emissions.
Can I Choose Who Carries Out My Upgrades?
No – the scheme is not to be confused with a grant that is sent to you, rather the funding is sent directly to the installer.
Once your energy provider has established what improvements should be made to your home, they will then find a local installer who meets the accreditation requirements set by the government. This ensures that all work will be carried out to a high standard and that the improvements will help to keep your home energy-efficient for the long run.
I’m Eligible for ECO4 – Does this Entitle Me to a New Boiler?
Possibly, but not necessarily. After a full survey has been conducted of your property, your energy provider will determine the best way to improve your home’s energy-efficiency, primarily considering the fabric of your home (walls, floors, roofs) before considering a full heating system replacement.
This means that if you have insufficient insulation, then this will be upgraded, though if this is already sufficient then a heating system upgrade may apply – however there are other restrictions that could affect this.
Assistance with ECO4 Application
If you believe that you could be eligible for heating upgrades under the ECO4 scheme, then we can help you apply here at UK Energy Management. Simply fill out our quick and simple application form, then, after checking your eligibility, we’ll be in touch to discuss the next steps with you.
As well as organising the grant on your behalf, we can arrange the fitting of your heating upgrade at a time to suit with an accredited installer.
Get in touch with us today if you have any queries or are still unsure about how we can help.
