This ECO4 Scheme Eligibility Guide outlines the requirements that must be met in order to qualify for funding. One of the main criteria is the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of the property.
Homes with an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G are eligible for funding. In addition, occupants of the property must be recipients of state aid, benefits, allowances, or credits.
These include Income-based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA), Income-related Employment & Support Allowance (ESA), Income Support (IS), Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, Working Tax Credit (WTC), and Child Tax Credits (CTC).
By improving the energy efficiency of homes, the ECO 4 Scheme aims to reduce energy bills and make homes more comfortable for occupants. The scheme is an important part of the government's efforts to tackle climate change and reduce carbon emissions.
Homeowners and tenants who meet the eligibility criteria should consider taking advantage of the scheme to make their homes more energy-efficient and reduce their energy bills.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) 4 Scheme, households must meet specific eligibility criteria. The criteria are designed to target households with poor energy efficiency and people who are claiming a type of government support benefit.
1. Low Energy Performance Certificate Rating (EPC)
Every property should have an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) - you can look up the current rating of your home here.
2. Claiming Benefits
Households can also qualify for the ECO4 Scheme if they receive certain benefits. The benefits that qualify for the scheme include Pension Credit, Income Support, Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit, and Housing Benefit.
It is important to note that the list of qualifying benefits is subject to change. Applicants should check the latest list of qualifying benefits on Ofgem's website.
In addition to meeting the income and benefit criteria, households must also meet other eligibility criteria. For example, tenants must have the landlord's permission to install energy-efficient measures, and homeowners must own the property.
Overall, the ECO4 Scheme is designed to help low-income households and vulnerable individuals improve their home's energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.
By targeting households with low incomes and those who receive certain benefits, the scheme aims to make energy-efficient measures more accessible to those who need them the most.
If you are claiming child support then the below table indicates the thresholds that qualify for ECO4.
| Household Type | Child Benefit Income Threshold |
|---|---|
| Single adult with 1 child | £19,900 |
| Single adult with 2 children | £24,800 |
| Single adult with 3 children | £29,600 |
| Single adult with 4+ children | £34,500 |
| Couple with 1 child | £27,500 |
| Couple with 2 children | £32,300 |
| Couple with 3 children | £37,200 |
| Couple with 4+ children | £42,000 |
3. Scotland and Wales
In Scotland and Wales, the ECO4 scheme is available to homeowners and private renters who meet the necessary eligibility criteria. The scheme is designed to help reduce carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty.
To qualify for ECO funding in Scotland and Wales, customers must meet the eligibility criteria set out by Ofgem. This includes having a household income below a certain threshold, living in an eligible property, and meeting certain energy efficiency requirements.
Customers in Scotland and Wales may be entitled to receive free solar panels, air source heat pumps, insulation (cavity wall, loft, underfloor, internal wall, or even external walls), and heating controls.
Additionally, those with a mains gas boiler over 15 years old may be eligible for a free A-rated gas boiler and insulation.
Local authorities and the Scottish and Welsh governments are also eligible to participate in the ECO4 scheme through the voluntary ECO4 Flex program.
This program allows these entities to work with obligated suppliers to identify and target energy efficiency measures in their communities.
It is important to note that the eligibility criteria and available measures may vary based on location and other factors.
Customers in Scotland and Wales should consult with their energy supplier or local authority to determine their eligibility and available measures under the ECO4 scheme.
Overall, the ECO4 scheme in Scotland and Wales provides an opportunity for eligible customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes and reduce their carbon footprint, while also helping to tackle fuel poverty in these regions.
| Eligible Entities | Eligible Measures |
|---|---|
| Homeowners | Free solar panels, air source heat pumps, insulation (cavity wall, loft, underfloor, internal wall, or even external wall), heating controls, A-rated gas boiler and insulation (if mains gas boiler over 15 years old) |
| Private renters | Same as homeowners (with landlord's agreement) |
| Local authorities | Voluntary participation in ECO4 Flex program |
| Scottish and Welsh governments | Voluntary participation in ECO4 Flex program |
The ECO4 Scheme is a fantastic opportunity for homeowners and tenants in Great Britain to make energy efficiency improvements to their homes and reduce their energy bills.
With funding available for measures such as insulation, heating improvements such as free boiler replacement and renewable energy, there are plenty of options to choose from to make your home more energy-efficient.
4. The Best Way to See if You Qualify
The best and quickest way to see if you are eligible for ECO4 is to apply for the ECO4 Scheme today. By taking action now, you can start enjoying the benefits of a more energy-efficient home and do your part to help reduce carbon emissions.
Don't wait, apply now and take the first step towards a more sustainable future, cheaper heating bills and a warmer home!