The ECO4 scheme, backed by the government, offers a lifeline to vulnerable households striving to improve their energy standards. This initiative not only aids in reducing fuel poverty but also aligns with the UK's ambitious carbon reduction targets.
If you're a homeowner or tenant yet to explore the benefits of the ECO4 grant, now's the time to consider how this scheme can transform your living space and contribute to a greener future. From upgrading heating systems to enhancing insulation, the ECO4 scheme is designed to make a significant, lasting impact on both your comfort and the environment.
Understanding the details and eligibility requirements can help you make informed decisions about the improvements that are available for your home. Let's delve into how this initiative can help you live more sustainably while potentially lowering your energy bills.
If you're unsure of your eligibility, a friendly member of our team would be happy to help.
The ECO4 Scheme, or the Energy Company Obligation, is a government initiative aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in lower income homes across the UK. Its primary focus is to reduce energy bills and improve the living conditions of its beneficiaries. Ultimately, ECO4 offers either free or discounted improvements to the home such as insulation, boiler replacements and solar panels [this is not a complete list].
Here are key points about the scheme:
✔️ The scheme focuses on providing energy efficiency upgrades to low-income households and those living in poorly insulated homes with Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings of D or lower.
✔️ The program is part of the UK government's commitment to making all housing stock more energy efficient by 2035 and achieving Net Zero emissions.
✔️ The scheme is funded by energy suppliers and implemented by approved installers. Check your eligibility with Glow Green.
The ECO4 scheme offers a pathway for enhancing your home's energy efficiency while also helping to reduce your energy bills. Understanding the specific criteria in order to qaulify will help ensure you don't miss out and can take full advantage of the benefits:
✔️ For your property to qualify for the ECO4 upgrades, it must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below. Specifically, homes with an EPC rating of F or G are prioritised and may receive measures to lift their rating to at least a D. Properties already rated D may be boosted to a C, aligning with the government's objective to enhance the least efficient homes first.
✔️ Your benefit status also determines your access to the ECO4 scheme. If you're a homeowner or private tenant receiving income-related benefits, you're likely eligible.
If you're unsure if you qualify and would prefer to speak with someone, reach out to us today!
✔️ Child Benefit, subject to meeting certain income thresholds*
✔️ Pension Guarantee Credit, which provides extra money to pensioners on low incomes
✔️ Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
✔️ Income-based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA)
✔️ Income Support (IS), aiding those who don't qualify for Jobseeker's Allowance
✔️ Tax Credits, both Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit
✔️ Universal Credit (UC), tailored for those who are on a low income or out of work
✔️ Housing Benefit, helping to cover rent for those on a low income
✔️ Working Tax Credit (WTC)
✔️ Pension Credit Savings Credit, available to those who have saved some money towards their retirement
*Below are the ECO4 Child Benefit Income Caps (before tax and National Insurance)
| Number of Children | Single Claimant Income Cap (£) | Couple Combined Income Cap (£) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 19,900 | 27,500 |
| 2 | 24,800 | 32,300 |
| 3 | 29,600 | 37,200 |
| 4 | 34,500 | 42,000 |
Benefits which where previosuly eligle under ECO3 but no longer apply for ECO4 include, but are not limited to:
❌ Carer's Allowance
❌ Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
❌ Attendance Allowance
❌ Armed Forces Independence Payment
❌ Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
ECO4 provides a range of improvements aimed at enhancing the energy efficiency of homes and supporting UK households in achieving lower energy costs and a reduced carbon footprint. The exact upgrades depend on your property's assessment but will aim at maximising energy efficiency:
☀️ Insulation - cavity wall, solid wall, room-in-roof insulation
☀️ Advanced Heating Systems - solar panels, biomass boilers, heatpumps
☀️ Boiler Upgrades & Repairs
☀️ Smart Heating Controls
Glow Green is now offering ECO4 funding opportunities. You can read below on the the application process to understand what documents and information you need to gather:
The ECO4 Scheme offers extensive benefits, primarily focusing on enhancing your home's energy efficiency and sustainability. As a homeowner or tenant, understanding these advantages can help you make informed decisions about participating in the scheme:
