Consumer Rights – Helping People – Helping Blaenau Gwent

For the past few years, our team at Consumer Rights CIC has been working with residents in Blaenau Gwent to assist them not only to save money on their energy bills, but also support the UK’s carbon reduction goals.

We are dedicated to making sure that the people of Blaenau Gwent can get the money they are entitled to, with ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme  (backed by LA Flex) accessible to eligible homes.

So how and why do we do this?

To help the UK government reach its goal of Net Zero emissions, the ECO4 scheme and other government-backed awards have been launched. We at Consumer Rights are committed to helping this cause. 

The median EPC score for Wales as a whole, however, is 67, placing it in band D.

In order to meet with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), private rental properties in Blaenau Gwent, as well as the rest of Wales, are legally required to have a minimum EPC rating of band E. 

Without a valid exemption listed on the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Exemptions Register, properties with ratings of F or G are not permitted to be rented out legally. Notably, Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council is actively attempting to increase energy efficiency in the region by taking part in programs like ECO4 that assist households with inadequate insulation and lessen the effects of growing energy costs.

Upgrading Homes in Blaenau Gwent

Consumer Rights  has been actively supporting residents of Blaenau Gwent in enhancing their property’s EPC rating by helping them access government-backed schemes like ECO4 and local programs focused on improving energy efficiency.

Blaenau Gwent’s housing stock faces significant challenges in energy efficiency, fuel poverty, insulation, and renewable energy adoption. The area is characterised by older terraced homes and properties with low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings, typically in bands E, F, or G. These homes often lack adequate insulation and rely on outdated heating systems, contributing to high energy costs and carbon emissions.

Insulation improvements are a key focus for retrofitting efforts. Measures such as cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, solid wall insulation, and room-in-roof insulation are funded under the ECO4 scheme to reduce heat loss and improve thermal efficiency. These upgrades are essential for older housing stock that lacks modern standards. Renewable energy adoption is growing in Blaenau Gwent through initiatives like free solar panel grants under ECO4. 

EPC Ratings in Blaenau Gwent

  • C and above (good energy efficiency): A relatively small portion of homes in Blaenau Gwent achieve a C rating or higher. These properties are considered energy-efficient but could still benefit from upgrades such as solar panels or modern heating systems.
  • D (average efficiency): The majority of homes fall into band D, featuring standard insulation and conventional heating systems. These properties have room for improvement through insulation upgrades or new boilers.
  • E (poor efficiency): A significant number of properties in Blaenau Gwent are rated E, indicating poor energy efficiency. These homes often face higher energy bills and require substantial improvements.
  • F-G (very poor efficiency): The least energy-efficient properties are rated F or G. These homes are costly to heat and need major upgrades, such as wall insulation and new heating systems, to meet modern standards.

To qualify for government funding through schemes like ECO4, properties must have an EPC rating of D or below. With a large proportion of homes in Blaenau Gwent falling into this category, many properties are already eligible for energy efficiency improvement programs.

Procedure for Applying for ECO4 Funding

Consumer Rights is here to help you gain access to the ECO4 funding and the GBIS Scheme, allowing you to install energy-saving measures in your residence. Determine your eligibility and submit an application.

How to Apply for ECO4 Funding:

1. Complete the Eligibility Checker
Visit our Eligibility Checker and use the tool to answer questions about your property and personal circumstances.

2. Centre Call Contact
After completing the checker, a member of our qualified contact centre team will call you. They will:

  • Discuss your property and the upgrades available.
  • Walk you through the application process.
  • Help gather any required documents.

      3. Property Survey and Upgrade Options

        • The team will arrange for a survey of your property to assess the upgrades that can be offered.
        • If you want to proceed, they will schedule a time to carry out the necessary work.

          If you think you may be eligible for funding, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team has a wealth of knowledge and will be happy to advise you further.