Energy company obligation
Eligible householders may qualify for home insulation and heating improvements through the government's Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme.
ECO is an energy efficiency scheme to help reduce carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty. It is administered by OFGEM (Office of Gas and Electricity Markets). For details, go to OFGEM: Energy Company Obligation (ECO).
We work to get ECO flexible funding for improvements to the homes of eligible Thurrock residents.
ECO Flex statements of intent
ECO4 scheme
The ECO4 scheme focuses on improving the building itself before installing new heating systems. This is called a 'fabric-first approach'. Any home with an energy performance certificate (EPC) rating of 'D' or below will have to install loft, roof and exterior-facing cavity wall insulation before making improvements to existing heating systems.
The scheme is for properties that have an EPC rating of D, E, F or G. A permanent resident within the property must be receiving one of either:
- Child tax credit
- Working tax credit
- Pension credit
- Income support
- Employment and support allowance, income-related
- Job seekers allowance, income-related
- Universal credit
- Housing benefit
Additionally, the total household income from all working-age residents must be less than £31,000 per year. The property must be a permanent home to at least one child or person with a health condition.
ECO4 covers a 4-year period until 31 March 2026.
Apply for a grant
To receive an ECO grant, a registered installer will need to survey your home to check you meet all the necessary criteria. They'll check what benefits you receive and confirm whether you're a private tenant or own your own home. You'll also be asked about energy efficiency in your home and possibly details about your EPC.
We are working with an ECO4 energy partner called BidConnecter. You can apply for a grant through their website, below.