The ECO (Energy Company Obligation) funding initiative has revolutionised the greener energy industry. More and more people can get an environmentally friendly heating method installed in their home, who otherwise would not have been able to afford it.
Although money is quite a personal matter, it is always worth asking your clients a couple of questions to see if they are eligible for an ECO grant. Below we’ve outlined the criteria for qualifying for funding, as well as some tips to help you determine whether you have the right client in front of you.
What are the requirements for qualification?
The ECO3 scheme has one major goal: The Home Heating Cost Reduction Obligation (HHCRO). This requires energy suppliers to promote the installation of measures that lead to financial savings on energy bills, like the installation of insulation or heating measures.
To qualify for funding there are a few remits you can fall into. If they have been a core customer from scheme year 9 onwards under the Warm Home Discount Scheme, they can qualify for ECO. A customer who falls into this category will be a less-well off pensioner. They will receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit and can be identified by the Department for Work and Pensions.
Other people who stand to benefit from ECO funding are those who receive a state benefit. Ofgem compiled a handy list of beneficiaries here. Alternatively, anyone who lives in social housing with an EPC rating of E, F or G could also be eligible for the scheme.
How do I broach the subject?
As we’ve already said, money is a taboo subject that can feel uncomfortable to broach. In some cases, it can be easy to assess whether or not a client is eligible for funding.
If you go out to see someone in social housing, just ask to see their EPC certificate – they should have a copy in the house. Based on the rating you see there; you can make a recommendation for funding.
When it comes to pensions and benefits, broaching the subject can be more challenging. If you are dealing with an elderly customer, they often like a chat. Engage them in conversation about their life and occupation. See if they give anything away. You can even suggest looking into the scheme to the more tech-savvy among the older generation.
In terms of benefits recipients, the best course of action is to again, engage them in conversation about their life and what they’re up to. From this can you can usually infer if they’re the ideal candidate or not. Suggest to them to research the scheme if you’re unsure.
Hopefully you can use the above advice to ascertain whether or not your clients could stand to benefit from ECO funding. If you need any further advice on how to fulfil your Energy Company Obligation, check out the rest of our site.