As we know, ECO4 has been delayed for three months and will not be starting on April 1, as was initially planned. However, that does not mean we can get complacent. Instead, it means we have three extra months to make sure we are ready for the final phase of the ECO scheme. With that in mind, the team here at Green Deal First have put together the ultimate checklist to help you prepare for ECO4.
Changes to the scoring methodology
As we know, when ECO4 rolls out it will be a whole-house approach based around multi-measure projects, as opposed to a measure-led approach, geared towards identifying single measure insulation, that is used as the current scoring methodology.
Now, full project scores will be awarded based on packages of measures installed in eligible premises, where the relevant requirements are met. These scores will be based on the difference expected in annual energy costs between the starting and finishing SAP rating of the premises. Some projects will have a deflator applied to part of the score. This will act as an incentive to meet minimum requirements and obtain a full project score and a whole building approach.
You can prepare yourself for the change in the scoring system by spending time familiarising yourself with the new methodology, so you can be sure that you are attempting to fulfil your Energy Company Obligation with appropriate candidates.
No specific targets
Right now, ECO4 does not have any specific requirements for how many homes affected by fuel poverty the scheme must help. However, as 4 million households in the UK (roughly 15%) are struggling with the issue, Citizens Advice have recommended that the government report on the proportion of measures under the scheme that actually go to households in fuel poverty, including those in the deepest fuel poverty.
In order to prepare yourself for the new phase of the scheme, do some research about what it means to be living in fuel poverty. This will make it easier to identify potential customers who will benefit from ECO Grants in the UK. It also means that you will be able to provide data about how many installations you have made that have benefited someone who lives in fuel poverty.
Don’t forget about LA Flex
In a previous blog post, we discussed how the government has changed the benefits that will be entitled to ECO funding under the fourth phase of the scheme. However, to compensate for this, they have expanded LA Flex, allowing local authorities to approve 50% of all measures, rather than 25%. If you have customers who would benefit from the ECO scheme, but don’t qualify according to the government’s requirements, make a note of them so they can be referred to local governments and get some assistance.
We hope this blog post has helped you define exactly what you can do to get ready for ECO4. Of course, if you need any assistance, or want to apply for additional funding before the next phase begins, just contact us!