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
Consumer Rights CIC has assisted the people of Lancaster and the surrounding areas in reducing their carbon footprint and energy expenses for the past 3 years. Through the provision of ECO4 (supported by LA Flex) and The Great British Insulation Scheme to eligible homes, we are dedicated to making sure Lancaster people obtain the financial assistance to which they are legally entitled.
Consumer Rights - Supporting Communities - Supporting Lancaster
Consumer Rights CIC has assisted the people of Lancaster and the surrounding areas in reducing their carbon footprint and energy expenses for the past 3 years.
Through the provision of ECO4 (supported by LA Flex) and The Great British Insulation Scheme to eligible homes, we are dedicated to making sure Lancaster people obtain the financial assistance to which they are legally entitled.
Why and How Do We Help?
To assist the UK Government in achieving Net Zero Emissions, ECO4 and comparable subsidies have been introduced. We at Consumer Rights are committed to fulfilling our part in this endeavour. All UK homes must now have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of at least band D or above to accomplish this goal.
Homes in Lancaster typically have an EPC rating of 60, which puts them in band D. This is in line with the average for the country. Landlord in Lancaster are obligated to make sure their private rental houses have an energy efficiency rating of at least band E on the EPC Register. It is illegal to rent out properties with an F or G rating without a legitimate exception.
Through government-backed programs like ECO4 and The Great British Insulation Scheme, Consumer Rights has been actively assisting Lancaster locals in raising the EPC rating of their homes.
The Importance of Energy Efficiency in Lancaster
Lancaster boasts a wide variety of home designs, including many older homes constructed before current energy efficiency regulations:
- Residences from before 1919: Victorian and Edwardian residences make up a sizable portion of Lancaster’s housing stock. These homes are frequently poorly insulated and extremely energy inefficient.
- Homes constructed during and after World War II: Although many homes constructed between the 1920s and the middle of the 20th century may have had stronger structural underpinnings, they still need to be updated to satisfy modern energy efficiency regulations.
EPC Ratings in Lancaster
- C and above (good energy efficiency): Between 25% and 33% of Lancaster homes have an EPC rating of C, which indicates that they are reasonably energy-efficient but still have room for upgrades like solar panels or contemporary heating systems.
- The most prevalent EPC rating in the region is D (average efficiency). These homes usually have basic heating and insulation systems, but improvements could increase their efficiency.
- E (poor efficiency): A lower proportion of Lancaster homes receive an E grade; these are typically older residences with solid walls and antiquated heating systems, which raises energy expenses.
- Homes in the F-G (extremely poor efficiency) category are the least numerous but the most energy-inefficient; they need significant upgrades to comply with current energy regulations.
To qualify for government funding, a property must have an EPC rating of D or lower. Many properties in Lancaster already meet this first eligibility requirement.
Supporting Low-Income Households
In Lancaster, a considerable number of households have low incomes and struggle with the financial burden of energy costs. Lancaster City Council report that many residents experience fuel poverty, finding it difficult to afford sufficient heating.
Consumer Rights can help you access the ECO4 scheme and work with government-approved installers to make energy-efficient improvements to your home.
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 and help improve your home’s energy efficiency at no cost to you.