SSG Retrofit helps homeowners access a wide range of government funded home improvements.
ECO4 Funding
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a government energy-efficiency scheme in Great Britain, designed to tackle fuel poverty and help reduce carbon emissions.
We help eligible customers secure and install various home improvement upgrades through Government funded schemes, including:
• Solar panel installation
• Loft, room and roof insulation
• Internal wall insulation
• Cavity wall insulation
• Air source heat pumps
• Funded boiler replacements
ECO4 Grants
The ECO (Energy Company Obligation) 4 grant is a government energy efficiency scheme to drive Scotland towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future. The scheme was introduced by the Scottish government to serve as a continuation of the previous ECO programmes. Each version has refined and expanded upon the last to better serve Scottish households.
At its core, the ECO4 grant is designed to assist homeowners in implementing energy-saving measures. By doing so, the scheme promotes a greener lifestyle and ensures that homes are warmer, more comfortable, and more cost-effective in terms of heating bills. The scheme also places a Home Heating Cost Reduction Obligation on energy suppliers, which energy suppliers have to comply with.
One of the main services under the ECO4 grant is the funded boiler replacement. If your boiler has been serving you for more than 15 years, it might be time for an upgrade. Luckily, the government’s ECO4 grant recognises the importance of efficient heating systems when it comes to reducing energy consumption and, consequently, households’ carbon footprints.
Through this scheme, homeowners can take advantage of the financial support offered to replace outdated boilers, ensuring a more efficient and eco-friendly heating solution.
While eligibility is a vital aspect of ECO4 funding, Scotland is mainly focused on gearing it towards low-income and vulnerable households. The main goal is to relieve fuel poverty and ensure that every household, regardless of its financial status, can enjoy the benefits of energy-efficient living. For a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria, the next section provides a broader overview.
Qualifying For An ECO4 Energy Grant
Although the criteria can change, here’s what is generally looked at to gauge your grant eligibility for the current ECO4 scheme:
Financial status
The ECO4 scheme is primarily geared towards low-income households. The idea behind this is to ensure that every citizen can access energy-efficient technology and, ultimately, have a warmer home.
Age of heating system
Age can also play a role in determining eligibility. For example, the funded boiler replacement service under the ECO4 grant targets boilers that are over 15 years old, to help in reducing energy bills. This is based on the understanding that older boilers are often less efficient and can lead to higher heating bills.
Property ownership
The ownership status of the property is another key factor. Whether you own your home or are a tenant, ECO4 may be available to you. Homeowners are eligible under the ECO4 scheme. However, if you are renting, you will have to receive permission from the landlord.
Benefits
Certain benefits, such as disability or pension credits, can also influence your eligibility. These criteria aim to ensure that those with additional challenges or limited means can access the support that they need. The benefits that will make you eligible for ECO4 funding are:
• Child Tax Credits
• Jobseekers Allowance
• Income Support
• Universal Credit
• Working Tax Credit
• Pension Credit Saving Credit
• Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
• Employment and Support Allowance
• Warm Home Discount Scheme Rebate
• Housing Benefit
Types of energy efficiency improvements
Lastly, the type of energy efficiency improvements or renewable system you’re considering can dictate which funding under ECO4 you’re eligible for. Whether it’s solar panels, insulation, or heat pumps, each service has its own set of qualifying measures. While various factors determine eligibility, the fundamental goal remains the same: support Scottish households in their transition to energy-efficient living. This eligibility criteria has two main categories: energy saving measures and renewables systems, the latter of which encompasses energy storage systems and district heating scheme connections. You can generally apply for up to two home renewables systems at a time. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, reaching out to experts, like those at Envirohomes Renewables, can provide clarity and guidance.
Services Covered By The ECO4 Scheme
In the pursuit of a greener, more sustainable Scotland, the ECO4 grant has been introduced to aid homeowners in their energy efficiency journey. This funding is tailored to the specific needs and improvements of a household and serves as proof of the Scottish government’s commitment to environmental safety and the alleviation of fuel poverty.
In this section, we’ll take a look at the various services and funding available by the ECO4 grant:
Cavity wall insulation
Cavity wall insulation is a specific type of insulation designed for homes with cavity walls. These are walls which are made up of two layers with a gap or ‘cavity’ in between them. This insulation technique is particularly common in many Scottish homes because of the region’s architectural history and climate.
The main purpose of cavity wall insulation is to fill the gap between these two wall layers with insulating material. This material acts as a thermal barrier that prevents heat from escaping during the cold months and keeps the warmth out during hotter ones. This results in a more consistent indoor temperature, leading to better comfort, lower energy bills, and a significant reduction in the need for artificial heating or cooling.
One of the standout benefits of cavity wall insulation is its cost-effectiveness. Once installed, homeowners can expect to see a noticeable decrease in their energy bills. The insulation ensures that the home retains heat more effectively, reducing the reliance on heating systems and, as a result, the energy consumed.
To add to this, cavity wall insulation is relatively non-intrusive. The installation process typically involves drilling small holes in the external walls, after which the insulating material is injected. Once the cavity is filled, the holes are sealed, leaving hardly any or no visible trace of the work done.
From an environmental standpoint, cavity wall insulation can play a big role in reducing a home’s carbon emissions. As homes become more energy-efficient, the demand for energy resources lessens, leading to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Cavity wall insulation is a win-win solution. It offers immediate tangible benefits in terms of cost savings and comfort, while also contributing to broader environmental goals and the Scottish government’s vision for a more sustainable nation.
Back boiler grants
Back boilers, once a very popular choice in many Scottish homes, have been largely replaced by more modern and efficient heating systems. However, for homes that still have these older systems, the transition to newer technologies can be a big ask, financially speaking. Recognising this challenge, the Scottish government introduced Back Boiler Grants. This grant is specifically designed to assist homeowners in replacing their outdated back boilers with newer, energy-efficient systems. The transition is not just about upgrading to a modern boiler; it’s also about integrating an energy storage system. Such systems ensure that the energy produced is stored efficiently and is ready for use when needed, reducing wastage and optimising energy consumption. The inclusion of an energy storage system in the grant’s framework highlights the forward-thinking approach of the Scottish government. By storing energy effectively, homeowners can better manage their energy consumption, drawing from the stored energy during peak times or when external energy sources may be limited.
Financially, the Back Boiler Grants can significantly offset the costs associated with upgrading to a new boiler and integrating an energy storage system into one’s home. This financial support ensures that homeowners, regardless of their economic status, can benefit from modern heating solutions and reduce their carbon emissions without the burden of restrictive costs.
Environmentally, the shift from back boilers to more efficient heating systems means a substantial decrease in carbon emissions. Homes become more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, aligning with Scotland’s broader sustainability goals.
Loft insulation grants
Loft insulation is another crucial aspect of home energy efficiency, especially given the fact that a significant portion of a home’s heat can be lost through an uninsulated roof. This is precisely why the Scottish government has introduced Loft Insulation Grants. These grants can support homeowners in their quest for a warmer and more energy-efficient living space.
Lofts are often overlooked spaces in homes. Yet, they play a crucial role in a home’s overall thermal performance. Properly insulating your loft – or room-in-roof – can prevent a large portion of a home’s heat from escaping. This results in a more consistent indoor temperature and less reliance on heating systems.
Like the other funding we’ve mentioned, this funding is designed to financially assist homeowners in installing or upgrading their loft insulation. With this grant, this essential home improvement becomes much more accessible, ensuring that the upfront costs don’t put homeowners off from making this valuable home investment.
The benefits of loft insulation go far beyond just warmth and comfort. By reducing the need for constant heating, homeowners can expect a noticeable decrease in their energy bills. Over time, the savings you can make with insulation can offset the initial cost of installation, making it a financially wise decision in the long run.
As you may have figured, from an environmental perspective, insulation contributes to a significant reduction in carbon emissions. As homes retain heat more effectively, there’s a decreased demand for energy resources, once again aligning with the energy efficiency objectives of the Scottish government.
Solar panel grant
Harnessing the power of the sun through solar panels is a transformative step in the domain of renewable energy systems. Following their recognition of the immense potential of renewable energy, and solar energy in particular, the Scottish government has introduced solar panel funding as part of the ECO4 scheme to increase the adoption of these renewable energy systems in homes.
Solar panels not only provide a sustainable source of renewable energy but also give homeowners a chance to reduce their energy bills, significantly. Over time, as the sun’s energy is converted into electricity for household use, the reliance on traditional energy sources diminishes. This leads to significant cost savings and also contributes to a cleaner environment.
The Solar Panel Grant is designed to make the installation of these renewable energy systems much more accessible to homeowners. By providing financial support, the grant ensures that the initial costs required for solar panel installation don’t become a deterrent.
For those interested in exploring this renewable energy option further, it’s advisable to contact Envirohomes Renewables. Our team of experts can provide comprehensive guidance on the grant and its benefits.
Air source heat pump grants
Air source heat pumps are a cutting-edge solution when it comes to transitioning to sustainable heating. This is because air source heat pumps capture heat from the outside air, even in colder temperatures, and use it to warm homes efficiently. This is why the introduction of Air Source Heat Pump Grants was a relatively simple decision for the Scottish government.
Like the Solar Panel and insulation ones, grants for air-source heat pumps (all under the ECO4 scheme) were introduced to make energy efficiency improvements by promoting the adoption of air-source heat pumps, a cornerstone in the shift towards greener heating solutions. Unlike traditional systems, these pumps operate on the principle of heat transfer rather than combustion, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.
With this grant, you won’t have to worry about the initial costs associated with installing air-source heat pumps. By offering financial assistance, the grant ensures that more Scottish homeowners can integrate this innovative technology into their homes, even if they’re experiencing budgetary constraints. If you or someone you know is weighing up this transition, reaching out to Envirohomes Renewables can be of great help, as we can provide you with all the insights you’ll need to make the decision. Our expertise can guide homeowners through the intricacies of the grant, the benefits of the technology and the overall impact on household energy consumption.
Additionally, like the grants previously mentioned, the Scottish government offers complementary financial support mechanisms, like interest-free loans, to further ease the transition. This grant is yet another prime example of the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable living and reducing the nation’s carbon footprint.
Grants for air source heat pumps are more than just a financial incentive; they symbolise Scotland’s forward-thinking approach to energy. By supporting the integration of air-source heat pumps, the grant paves the way for a future where homes are warmer and function in harmony with the environment.
Electric heating grants
An electric heating system, when optimised by installing energy-efficient measures, can be a game-changer for households aiming for both efficiency and sustainability. The Scottish government, in its continuous efforts to promote cleaner energy solutions, has rolled out Electric Heating Grants, yet another highly important initiative under the broader ECO4.
The ECO4 grant specifically targets households looking to transition to or upgrade their electric heating solutions. Electric heating, especially when combined with modern energy-efficient heating systems, offers a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based methods.
It provides consistent warmth, reduces carbon emissions and often leads to more manageable energy bills.
The Electric Heating Grants effectively serve two main purposes. Firstly, they make the adoption of advanced electric heating solutions more financially feasible for homeowners. The initial setup or upgrade costs, which may be very offputting for many, are significantly offset by the grant, ensuring that more households can benefit from this technology. Secondly, the grant further emphasises the Scottish government’s objective to reduce the nation’s carbon emissions and move towards a more sustainable energy future.
For homeowners keen on exploring the possibilities and benefits of electric heating, reaching out to Envirohomes Renewables is a key first step. Our team can provide detailed insights into the grant, the range of energy-efficient heating systems available, and the long-term benefits of making the switch, of which there are many.
Beyond just financial support, these Electric Heating Grants represent a broader vision for a greener, more sustainable Scotland. By facilitating the adoption of advanced electric heating solutions, the grant ensures that Scottish homes are comfortably warm and well-aligned with the nation’s objective of reducing carbon emissions.
Draft proofing
Draft proofing is another type of insulation grant funding provided by the ECO4 scheme.
Older Scottish homes suffer from excessive drafts, due to poor insulation and old windows, doors and general building techniques. It can cost a lot to draft-proof your home and prevent cold external air from cooling down the internal space. Even if your heating system is efficient, drafts can prevent it from properly heating your home.
ECO4 funding can help you draft-proof your home and replace single-glazed windows, which will ensure your home will retain heat, even on the coldest days.