The Government, energy suppliers and local authorities are committed to helping you save energy and reduce your impact on the environment. This help includes heating grants for homeowners – and some private renters – with low incomes. Through a government-backed scheme called the Energy Companies Obligation (ECO) you can get financial help with a gas boiler replacement and free loft and cavity wall insulation if you meet the criteria.
Previously known as the Affordable Warmth Obligation, the ECO began in December 2018 and will run until March 2022. Aimed at helping the most vulnerable customers and those living in fuel poverty, the scheme will install energy-efficiency measures in up to 900,000 eligible homes. The measures (such as new boilers and insulation) make homes cheaper to heat, as well as being more eco-friendly. All energy suppliers in the UK with more than 150,000 customers offer ECO funding.
To check if you are eligible and to find out how to claim, speak to your utilities provider or visit https://www.ofgem.gov.uk
Further information on this and other schemes available in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland can also be found on the Energy Saving Trust website which is an excellent resource for energy advice.