The rising cost of energy bills and the urgent need to improve energy efficiency have made home insulation more important than ever. The Great British Insulation Scheme, formerly known as ECO+ (Energy Company Obligation Plus), is a government initiative designed to help households across the UK improve their homes’ insulation, reduce energy consumption, and save on heating costs. Here, we’ll explain what the scheme entails, who qualifies, and how it can benefit your household.
What Is the Great British Insulation Scheme?
The Great British Insulation Scheme is a government-backed programme aimed at supporting households to install better insulation in their homes. The primary goal is to make homes more energy efficient, thereby reducing carbon emissions and helping homeowners and renters lower their energy bills.
If you qualify, the scheme offers financial support for the installation of various insulation measures. These measures include loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and potentially other types of insulation depending on your property’s needs.
Who Is Eligible for the Scheme?
The Great British Insulation Scheme is primarily targeted at households that are less energy-efficient and may struggle with high energy bills. To be eligible, your home must meet the following criteria:
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC):
- Your home must have an EPC rating of D to G. The EPC measures the energy efficiency of your home on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). If you’re unsure about your home’s EPC rating, you can check it on the government’s EPC register.
- Council Tax Bands:
- For homes in England, you must be in Council Tax bands A to D.
- In Scotland and Wales, the scheme extends to homes in Council Tax bands A to E. You can check your Council Tax band on your local council’s website or through your latest Council Tax bill.
These criteria ensure that support is focused on households that would benefit the most from improved insulation.
What Can You Get Through the Scheme?
If you qualify for the Great British Insulation Scheme, you may receive financial support to install the following types of insulation:
- Cavity Wall Insulation Cavity wall insulation involves filling the gap (or cavity) between your home’s exterior and interior walls with an insulating material. This can significantly reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
- Loft Insulation Loft insulation works by trapping heat within your home, preventing it from escaping through the roof. A well-insulated loft can drastically cut your heating bills, as around 25% of a home’s heat is lost through an uninsulated roof.
- Other Types of Insulation Depending on the specific characteristics of your home, you may also be eligible for support to install other types of insulation, such as solid wall insulation or underfloor insulation. After assessing your property, your energy supplier will confirm what additional insulation measures you may qualify for.
- External Wall Insulation (EWI) For homes where cavity walls have already been insulated, further improvements can still be made. Installing an External Wall Insulation (EWI) system involves adding an insulating layer to the outside of your property, further boosting its energy efficiency.
How Does the Process Work?
The process of applying for and receiving support under the Great British Insulation Scheme is straightforward:
- Check Your Eligibility
- Verify your home’s EPC rating and Council Tax band to determine if you qualify.
- Contact Your Energy Supplier
- The scheme is delivered through energy suppliers, so you will need to get in touch with your supplier to begin the process.
- Home Assessment
- Your energy supplier will arrange a home assessment to identify the most suitable insulation measures for your property.
- Installation
- Once the assessment is complete, your supplier will confirm what support you can receive and proceed with the insulation installation.
Why Should You Take Advantage of the Scheme?
The Great British Insulation Scheme offers a range of benefits for households:
- Lower Energy Bills: Improved insulation reduces the amount of energy needed to heat your home, resulting in lower monthly bills.
- Increased Comfort: A well-insulated home retains heat more effectively, keeping you warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Reduced Carbon Footprint: By using less energy, you can contribute to reducing the UK’s carbon emissions.
- Enhanced Property Value: Better energy efficiency can make your property more attractive to buyers and improve its overall market value.
The Great British Insulation Scheme is a fantastic opportunity for eligible households to improve their home’s energy efficiency at little to no cost. With the rising costs of energy, taking advantage of this initiative can provide both immediate and long-term savings while making your home more comfortable year-round. If you think you might be eligible, check your EPC rating and Council Tax band today, and contact your energy supplier to start the process.
FAQ
How do I know if I’m eligible for the scheme?
To qualify, your home must have an EPC rating of D to G and fall within Council Tax bands A to D in England or A to E in Scotland and Wales.
What types of insulation can I get through the scheme?
You may be able to get cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, and potentially other types such as solid wall or underfloor insulation.
Is the scheme available to homeowners and renters?
Yes, the scheme is open to both homeowners and private renters. However, renters will need their landlord’s permission before any work is carried out.
How do I apply for the scheme?
You can apply by contacting your energy supplier, who will assess your home and confirm the support available.
How much will the insulation cost me?
In most cases, the scheme covers the majority of the cost. However, depending on the type of insulation and your home’s needs, you may need to contribute a small amount.