As we aren’t expecting to see ECO 4 for another few months, now is the perfect time to explain exactly who is eligible for ECO funding and how they can get it. Fortunately for you, the team here at Green Deal First are experts at securing funding for their clients and know everything there is to know about ECO grants in the UK. See below to find out if you qualify for ECO funding and how we can help with your application.
Who is eligible for ECO funding?
In order to be eligible for ECO funding, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, anyone who has been a core group customer under the Warm Home Discount Scheme from year 12 onwards, is automatically eligible for ECO funding. Another way you can qualify for ECO funding is if you are in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits and satisfy the relevant income requirements. As of ECO 3 (meaning this information could be subject to change before ECO 4 is rolled out) households with an income up to £36,600 could qualify for a brand new boiler.
Additionally, anyone hoping to benefit from the ECO scheme must own their own home or have the permission of their landlord, including for properties owned by social housing providers or management companies.
What benefits are included?
The list of benefits for ECO funding is quite accessible, meaning most people in England can access the scheme, depending on their income. The list includes: Child Benefit, Pension Guarantee Credit, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Income Support, Tax Credits (Child and Working), Universal Credit, Housing benefit and Pension credit saving credit.
Local authorities can also refer residents to the scheme, with LA Flex taking on a more dominant role on the ECO 4 scheme. Additionally, energy suppliers can refer households under the scheme, if they are struggling with persistent fuel debt, are using prepayment metres and have regularly been unable to stay connected to their fuel supplies as a result of financial difficulties.
How do you apply for ECO funding?
There are several ways you can apply for ECO funding. Firstly, get in touch with your energy supplier. Each of them has an obligation to give out a quota of ECO grants in a year, so it’s worth asking if they can support you with your energy saving ventures. Secondly, consider applying for funding through companies who are experts at securing funding for their clients, like Green Deal First. We are experts at pushing applications through for the people who need support the most.
The third way to apply for ECO funding is to appeal to your local council via the LA Flex scheme. The LA Flex scheme is designed to give local authorities the power they need to be able to reduce fuel poverty in their communities, by issuing ECO funding to people who need it in their local area. People can qualify based on age, health, low income, or the area where they live.