What is the Eco4 ECO Scheme

The Eco4 scheme is the fourth part of the Government backed energy efficiency scheme which will run from 1 April 2022 until 31 March 2026 in England, Scotland and Wales. It is designed to improve the warmth and energy efficiency of homes in the D-G energy efficiency bracket that are occupied by homeowners and tenants who are on low incomes, claiming benefits or who are classified as vulnerable.

The Eco4 energy grants 2022 will raise the energy efficiency of eligible properties to at least a Band D or higher where possible. This will improve the Government’s ability to meet its carbon zero targets as well as to support fuel poor households in the UK. Given the current rising cost of energy, we encourage everyone who is eligible to consider what measures they could potentially secure under this grant as the measures available will deliver lower energy bills in the long term.

The Eco4 energy efficiency scheme is delivered by utility companies to OFGEM, it uses a whole house approach to improving heating systems with an aim of reducing fuel poverty. Homeowners and private tenants who are in receipt of qualifying benefits can check if they are eligible for the scheme and private landlords are being encouraged to engage with their tenants to encourage them to apply for the grant if they are eligible as not only will this grant allow them to live in greater comfort (both financially and in terms of actual warmth) whilst they occupy the property, but will deliver energy efficiency benefits for the landlord for years to come.

The Eco4 scheme will allow for upgrades to home heating systems, such as the installation of electric storage heaters, condensing boilers or air source heat pumps. It will also deliver home insulation grants, including cavity wall insulation and loft insulation. Improving a home’s heating system and insulation are an effective money saving measure which will help homeowners and private tenants to remain warm and stay well for less.

Most homeowners and private tenants will be eligible to apply for improvements to their home’s heating system and insulation under this grant, provided that they claim at least one of the following benefits:

– Child tax credits
– Child benefits
– Income based Jobseekers Allowance
– Income related Employment & Support Allowance
– Income Support
– Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
– Universal Credit
– Warm Home Discount Scheme Rebate
– Working Tax Credit
– Housing Benefit
– Pension Credit Saving Credit

For those homeowners or private tenants that are not on benefits but have a low income and are living in a home that is energy inefficient (energy efficiency band D or lower), we recommend discussing the LAFlex programme with your local council. This programme is designed to help homeowners who are not receiving any benefits but have a tight budget and will be challenged by heating their homes this winter. We can provide you with heavily discounted rates for upgraded insulation under this scheme if your local council deems that you are eligible via this route.