We all know too well that by April we will be paying over the odds for our gas and electricity, when energy prices rise. Everyone in the country is getting ready to do everything they can to ensure their energy bills remain as low and affordable as possible, which could include applying for some ECO funding. Below, we have outlined 4 ways that ECO funding can help you survive the energy price rise.
Insulate your roof
One of the most common energy saving measures installed using ECO grants UK is insulation. When we think of insulation, we probably think of insulating our walls, but it’s also important to insulate your roof. Heat rises, which is why we lose such a large percentage of our homes’ heat through an uninsulated roof. Insulating your loft can shave up to £315 a year off your energy bills. A very substantial saving, especially in today’s energy market.
Repair your boiler
As we all know, the new phase of the ECO scheme plans to favour repairing heating measures such as boilers, rather than replacing them completely. If your boiler has been damaged, it won’t be working to its full potential and chances are, it’s wasting energy that you then have to pay for. Repairs to a boiler under an ECO grant must result in a low temperature heating system that is more efficient, safer, cleaner and easier to integrate with heat pumps.
Switch to a heat pump
Air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps are set to become very popular over the coming years, as an alternative to gas based heating systems. If you are able to make the switch to an efficient heat pump, you could find yourself saving £261 per year, compared to a gas boiler. When you apply for the ECO scheme, you can get a portion of the cost of a heat pump covered by the government. Soon, the government will also be offering the Renewable Heat Incentive, allowing people in England and Wales a grant of up to £5,000 for an air source heat pump, or £6,000 for a ground source heat pump.
Have solar panels installed
Solar panels will not be widely offered as part of the ECO scheme, as part of the government’s efforts to reduce the country’s carbon footprint. If your solar system is large enough, it has the capacity to drastically reduce your electricity bill, as your home will be able to operate on the renewable energy you are producing. Regardless, you will still find your home uses less electricity from the National Grid, meaning a huge saving (of up to £270) on your electricity bills.
While the fourth phase of the ECO scheme is still on hold for a few months, applications are still being received. Green Deal First are still on hand to help you apply for funding and negotiate the best rates possible, to ensure yourself and your clients can get access to the government schemes that are designed to prevent fuel poverty. ECO funding can help you fight the energy price rise if you know your way around it!