ECO4 has closed to new applications — here's the help you can get now
ECO4 grants are no longer available. See the grants and funding you can get now.
In summary
At Consumer Rights CIC , we've spent the last 3 years helping Inverness residents lower their energy costs and carbon footprint. Through ECO4 (with LA Flex funding) and The Great British Insulation Scheme , eligible households can access financial support to upgrade their home insulation and reduce energy consumption.
Consumer Rights - Supporting Communities - Supporting Inverness
At Consumer Rights CIC , we’ve spent the last 3 years helping Inverness residents lower their energy costs and carbon footprint.
Through ECO4 (with LA Flex funding) and The Great British Insulation Scheme , eligible households can access financial support to upgrade their home insulation and reduce energy consumption. We’re dedicated to helping Inverness residents navigate these schemes and secure the funding they deserve.
Why and How Do We Help?
The UK Government has initiated ECO4 and similar grants to achieve its Net Zero Emissions goal. Consumer Rights is committed to supporting this initiative. All UK homes must now have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of at least band D to meet this target.
The LA Flex Scheme was established in Inverness by the Highland Council to enable eligible households to access financial assistance. Only private homeowners and renters experiencing fuel poverty, limited income, or vulnerability due to cold home conditions are eligible for this assistance.
The average EPC rating for homes in Inverness is around 62, which falls within band D and aligns with the national average. Landlords in Inverness must ensure their private rental properties have an energy efficiency rating of at least band E on the EPC Register. Properties rated F or G cannot be legally rented out unless a valid exemption applies.
Consumer Rights has been actively helping Inverness residents improve their property’s EPC rating by assisting them in accessing government-backed initiatives such as ECO4 and The Great British Insulation Scheme.
The Importance of Energy Efficiency in Inverness
The housing stock in Inverness is diverse, but many homes were built before modern energy efficiency standards were established. A significant number of homes date back to the Victorian and Edwardian eras (pre-1919) and are known for their poor insulation and high energy inefficiency.
Homes built between the 1920s and mid-20th century typically have better structural foundations but still require upgrades to meet current energy efficiency standards.
EPC Ratings in Inverness
- C and above (good energy efficiency): Approximately 25% to 33% of homes in Inverness have an EPC rating of C, indicating that these homes are fairly energy efficient. However, there is still room for improvement through upgrades such as the installation of solar panels or modern heating systems.
- D (average efficiency): Homes with this EPC rating, the most common in the area, typically have standard insulation and heating systems. They could achieve improved energy efficiency with upgrades.
- E (poor efficiency): Inverness has a smaller percentage of homes with an E rating. These are often older properties with solid walls and outdated heating systems, resulting in higher energy costs.
- F-G (very poor efficiency): These homes are the least common type but are the most energy inefficient. They need substantial improvements to reach current energy standards.
To qualify for government funding, a property must have an EPC rating of D or lower. Many properties in Inverness already meet this first eligibility requirement.
Supporting Low-Income Households
In Inverness, a considerable number of households have low incomes, and energy costs can be a substantial financial burden for them. Local authorities report that many Inverness residents are experiencing fuel poverty, struggling to afford adequate heating for their homes.
Consumer Rights can help you access the ECO4 scheme. We work with a network of government-approved installers to implement the necessary home improvements to make your property more energy-efficient.
How local authority support works
Consumer Rights is here to assist you in gaining access to the ECO4 funding and the LA Flex 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.
Get in Touch Today!
If you think you qualify for ECO4 or LA Flex funding, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through the process step by step.