Having a warm, dry home is a fundamental right for every individual, but for many low-income families, the cost of heating and insulation can be daunting.
The resulting energy poverty puts families at risk of health problems, such as respiratory illnesses, and increases their vulnerability to extreme weather events.
Thankfully, the government has implemented several measures, including the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Scheme, to combat these issues.
The ECO4 Scheme was launched in 2022, replacing the previous ECO3 scheme that began in 2013.
It is a government initiative that obligates energy companies to fund and install energy-saving measures in households that are deemed to be fuel-poor or vulnerable. You can check here to see if you qualify for the grant.
The scheme aims to reduce fuel poverty, improve energy efficiency, and decrease carbon emissions.
The Energy Company Obligation Scheme is part of the UK government's strategy to meet its climate change targets, which include reducing carbon emissions to net zero by 2050.
The scheme works by requiring energy companies to fund energy-saving measures, such as insulation and boiler replacements, in households that are deemed to be fuel-poor or vulnerable.
These households include those with low incomes, the elderly, and people with disabilities along with Low EPC rating properties.
ECO4 offers several different funding streams, including a Home Heating Cost Reduction Obligation (HHCRO), which aims to reduce the cost of heating for low-income households.
Under the HHCRO, eligible households can receive free insulation, cavity wall insulation, or a new boiler if their current one is inefficient.
Additionally, the scheme offers a Carbon Saving Obligation (CSO), which funds measures that reduce carbon emissions.
The eligibility criteria for ECO4 are based on a combination of factors, including household income, energy efficiency ratings, and vulnerability.
Households that meet the eligibility criteria can apply for funding for energy-saving measures.
The scheme is available to both homeowners and private tenants, as long as the landlord agrees to the installation of energy-saving measures.
ECO4 is a legitimate scheme that has been put in place to help low-income households and vulnerable individuals.
It is an excellent opportunity for those struggling to keep up with energy costs to receive free energy-saving measures, which can help to reduce their energy bills and improve their living conditions.
The scheme is funded by energy companies, so there is no need for households to pay for the measures themselves.
In conclusion, the Energy Company Obligation Scheme is an excellent initiative by the UK government to combat fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions. Check If you qualify here.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for ECO4 are based on several factors, including household income, energy efficiency ratings (EPC), and vulnerability. To qualify for the scheme, households must meet one or all of the following criteria:
If you meet any of the above criteria, you may be eligible to apply for the ECO4 Scheme. Get started with your grant
Under the ECO4 Scheme, eligible households can receive a range of energy-saving measures, including:
The exact measures that you are eligible for will depend on the results of the survey carried out on your property.
Chat with one of our friendly agents and see if we can help.