Are you putting off home improvements because of the costs involved? When it comes to replacing a central heating system or improving insulation, getting the upfront funds together can be a challenge for many people.

While it’s true that improving or replacing a central heating system can be costly, it’s also true that they’re both real investments that will save you money on your energy bills in the long run. The good news is that there are various schemes available in England and Wales, such as the ECO scheme, which offer central heating grants and insulation grants. These grants are designed to help people access the funds they need to improve their home’s efficiency at either a reduced cost or, in some cases, at no cost at all.

What is the ECO scheme? (Energy company obligation)

The Government led Energy Company Obligation Scheme helps families who are on low incomes and in receipt of government benefits to reduce their energy bills. If you meet the criteria you could get a free grant towards insulation or a new boiler in your home. If you’re not on receipt of benefits please speak to us as we have access to a number of grants.

All the big energy companies like British Gas, EDF, E.ON, Npower and Scottish Power are required by the government to help you save money on your heating if you meet the scheme criteria. The easiest way they can do this is to provide better insulation and more efficient heating for your home.

If you’re eligible, the ECO government insulation scheme may provide funding towards insulation for your home. You won’t get a cash pay-out, but you may get free insulation, or a significant contribution towards it that will help to keep your home warm and cut your energy bills.

Are YOU Eligible to Receive These Grants?

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a Government scheme which aims to tackle fuel poverty in vulnerable and low-income households.

The biggest energy companies have a legal obligation to help households become more energy efficient; specifically, low income households who are in receipt of a range of qualifying benefits. How do they do this? They provide the funding for the ECO insulation and heating grants.

Eligible homeowners or tenants who live in privately rented accommodation (and have permission from their landlord) may be entitled to free loft, cavity wall and underfloor insulation and / or to have their boiler repaired or replaced.

--You receive certain benefits

- Child Benefit (subject to income)
- Child Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- State Pension ‘Guarantee’ credit
- Universal Credit
- Disability Living Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Severe Disablement Allowance
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Income-related Employment & Support Allowance

--Your local authority has grants available

Local Authority Flexible Eligibility grants and Health grants are based on the same funding but you do not need to be on any of the benefits above. Each local authority Council establishes the grant criteria for their area.

Please contact us for information on whether there are grants available in your area and to discuss eligibility.