Can You Get Free Loft Insulation If You’re Not on Benefits?
This is part of our complete guide to roof and loft insulation.
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a government scheme in Great Britain that requires energy suppliers to deliver energy efficiency measures to domestic premises. The aim of the scheme is to tackle fuel poverty and help reduce carbon emissions. This program is specifically directed toward families and individuals currently on benefits, but can you qualify for free loft insulation even if you aren’t on benefits?
How does ECO4 work?
Each energy supplier is given an ECO4 obligation based on their share of the domestic energy market in Great Britain. Suppliers must meet their obligation by delivering energy efficiency measures to eligible households. The measures that are eligible for ECO4 include:
Loft insulation
Cavity wall insulation
Solid wall insulation
Solar photovoltaic panels
Boiler upgrades
Who is eligible for ECO4?
ECO4 is available to households in Great Britain that are eligible for certain benefits, such as:
Child Benefit
Universal Credit
Housing Benefit
Households with a low income and households living in energy-inefficient homes are also eligible for ECO4.
How much does ECO4 cost?
The cost of ECO4 measures varies depending on the measure that is installed. However, most ECO4 measures are free for eligible households.
What if I Don’t Qualify for ECO4?
Even if you don’t meet the above qualifications for ECO4 assistance, there is another program in place that allows local authorities in the United Kingdom to widen the eligibility criteria for the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme. This means that local authorities can provide energy efficiency measures to households that are not eligible for ECO4 but are still living in fuel poverty or are on low income and vulnerable to living in a cold home.
Great British Insulation Scheme Local Authority Flex
The Great British Insulation Scheme is a government-backed initiative aimed at improving the energy efficiency of homes in Great Britain, particularly those in lower-income households and those with energy-inefficient properties. The scheme, which launched in April 2023 and is scheduled to run until March 2026, aims to address fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions by providing eligible homeowners and tenants with access to free or discounted loft insulation.
Key Features of the Great British Insulation Scheme:
Targeted Support: The scheme prioritizes low-income households and those living in energy-inefficient properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below.
Free or Discounted Insulation: Eligible households can receive loft insulation installations at no cost or at a significantly reduced price, depending on their circumstances.
Comprehensive Coverage: The scheme aims to deliver insulation to approximately 300,000 homes across Great Britain, helping to improve energy efficiency and reduce household energy bills.
Professional Installation: Qualified installers will undertake the loft insulation work, ensuring that the insulation is installed correctly and effectively.
Energy Efficiency Benefits: Loft insulation can significantly reduce heat loss from homes, leading to lower energy bills, improved thermal comfort, and reduced carbon emissions.
Who is Eligible for a Loft Insulation Grant?
To be eligible for the Great British Insulation Scheme, homeowners or tenants must meet the following criteria:
Located in Great Britain: The scheme is available to households in England, Scotland, and Wales.
Low-Income Eligibility: Households receiving at least one of the following benefits are considered part of the low-income eligibility group:
Child Benefit
Pension Guarantee Credit
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
Income Support
General Group Eligibility: Households that do not fall into the low-income eligibility group can still be considered for the scheme if their home has an EPC rating of D or below.
Council Tax Band: The property must fall within Council Tax bands A-D in England or A-E in Scotland and Wales.
Applying for the Great British Insulation Scheme
Households interested in applying for the Great British Insulation Scheme can do so through various channels:
Government Website: The GOV.UK website provides information on the scheme and a direct application link.
Participating Energy Suppliers: Eligible households can also apply through their energy supplier, as energy suppliers are responsible for delivering the scheme.
Local Authority: Contacting the local authority may provide guidance on eligibility and application procedures.
MPC Energy Ltd May Be Able to Help You Qualify Via LA Flex
LA Flex, also known as Local Authority Flexible Eligibility, is a program that allows local authorities in the United Kingdom to widen the eligibility criteria for the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme. This means that local authorities can provide energy efficiency measures to households that are not eligible for ECO4, but are still living in fuel poverty or are on low income and vulnerable to living in a cold home.
How does LA Flex work?
Each local authority has its own LA Flex criteria, which is based on the needs of the local community. For example, a local authority might decide to prioritize households with young children or elderly people.
While ECO4 is for people receiving government benefits, Local Authority Flexible Eligibility can provide many possible grants. MPC Energy can work under LA Flex and apply on behalf of people in these councils: Aberdeen City, Dundee City, Perth and Kinross, Angus, North Ayrshire, South Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, Dumfries & Galloway. Get in touch with us and we can assess your household eligibility, work with the local councils, and install the measures to make your home more heating efficient.
