How the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) helps Scottish Borders Council residents save on energy bills
Free insulation and heating upgrades – Fully funded through the government-backed ECO scheme
Lower your energy bills – Reduce heat loss and cut monthly costs for good
Quick and easy eligibility check – No commitment, no hassle
TrustMark-accredited installers – Work meets high safety and quality standards
Support for households with a total income of less than £31,000 per year
Support for households where someone has a long term health condition that is affected by living in a cold home (eg asthma, arthritis, diabetes, circulation problems, cardiovascular problems, limited mobility etc)
Check Your Eligibility
Residents in the Scottish Borders often face high energy bills due to older housing and reliance on costly heating methods like oil and electricity. The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, supported by the Scottish Borders Council, offers solutions by improving home energy efficiency. This can include measures like insulation and heating upgrades, directly reducing energy costs.
The scheme is crucial for homeowners as it helps lower energy costs while enhancing home comfort. It also supports efforts toward reducing household carbon emissions.
This page supports our content about the Energy Company Obligation Grant. You can find other information about the Scottish Borders by following this link.
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Discover how Energy Saving Grants can benefit your home
Wondering how to maximise the benefits of the Energy Company Obligation Grant? Energy Saving Grants specialises in helping locals access government funding for energy efficiency projects. We assist with every step, from assessing eligibility to coordinating installations, allowing you to enjoy reduced energy bills and a more comfortable home. Read on to discover how we can assist you in leveraging these grants.
Understanding the ECO scheme and its benefits
The ECO scheme plays a vital role in addressing energy concerns by reducing fuel poverty and emissions. This programme offers homeowners access to funding for necessary energy efficiency upgrades.
- Purpose: ECO aims to lower fuel poverty rates and reduce carbon emissions by improving energy efficiency in homes.
- How it works: The programme provides funding for energy-saving measures, which accredited installers then implement.
- Funding source: Energy suppliers finance ECO as part of their obligations under UK government regulations.
- Upgrades it covers: Eligible upgrades include insulation, heating systems, and renewable energy installations, offering significant improvements to home energy efficiency.
- Target audience: ECO primarily assists low-income households or those in vulnerable situations, with local authorities using LA Flex to establish specific eligibility criteria.
By enhancing your home’s energy efficiency, ECO helps create a more sustainable and cost-effective living environment.
Housing challenges in the Scottish Borders
The housing landscape in the Scottish Borders presents unique challenges and opportunities due to its diverse mix of properties and energy needs.
- Type and age: Many homes are older, stone-built structures, especially prevalent in areas like Hawick and Peebles.
- Heating fuels: A significant number of homes rely on oil, LPG, and electric heating due to being off the gas grid.
- Urban vs rural gaps: Newer housing developments are mostly found in urban areas like Galashiels, while rural areas often consist of older, more traditional homes.
- Poor EPC trends: Around 44% of homes fall into the lower EPC Bands D–G, highlighting energy efficiency challenges.
- Off-grid issues: Many properties are off-grid, leading to higher reliance on more expensive and less efficient fuel sources.
Addressing these housing challenges is crucial for improving energy efficiency and reducing costs for residents across the Scottish Borders.
Energy challenges and needs in the Scottish Borders
The energy statistics for the Scottish Borders Council area highlight significant challenges in energy use and efficiency needs. These figures reveal the extent of reliance on traditional heating fuels and the prevalence of low energy efficiency ratings among homes.
- 44% of homes have low energy efficiency, falling into EPC Bands D–G.
- A large number of homes are off the gas grid, depending on oil, LPG, and electric heating.
- 28% of households face fuel poverty, driven by high heating costs and low incomes.
- Many homes are older and harder to treat due to their stone-built construction.
Domestic heating is the main source of household emissions in the area.
This data underscores the urgent need for action to improve energy efficiency and reduce fuel poverty. The ECO scheme offers valuable support in addressing these challenges by helping residents upgrade their homes and lower energy costs.
Understanding EPC ratings and energy efficiency
EPC ratings are essential for understanding a property’s energy efficiency and potential cost implications. Knowing your home’s rating helps identify areas for improvement and can guide decisions on energy efficiency upgrades.
- A: Homes with this rating have very low energy use and running costs, indicating top-notch efficiency.
- B & C: These properties are above average in energy efficiency, benefiting from moderate energy use, leading to manageable costs.
- D: This rating signifies average energy efficiency, common in UK homes, with typical running costs and energy usage.
- E, F & G: Homes with these ratings are the least efficient, with high energy consumption and elevated running costs, making them more challenging to keep warm.
Improving homes with lower EPC ratings can significantly reduce energy bills and emissions. Addressing these efficiencies is vital, especially as we face issues like fuel poverty, a topic we will explore in the next section.
Addressing fuel poverty and its impact
Fuel poverty occurs when a household cannot afford to keep their home adequately warm. This issue affects residents throughout the Scottish Borders, including towns like Galashiels, Hawick, and Peebles. High energy costs, low income, and poor energy efficiency are the main contributors to fuel poverty in these areas.
For many families in Kelso, Jedburgh, and Selkirk, the dilemma of choosing between heating their homes and buying food is a harsh reality. This choice often leads to cold homes, which can have severe health implications, including worsening chronic conditions and increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses. Fuel poverty is not just an economic issue; it presents serious risks to the well-being of affected households.
The ECO scheme offers support to those facing fuel poverty, providing funding for energy efficiency improvements. By targeting homes in areas like Eyemouth and Galashiels with low EPC ratings, ECO aims to lower energy costs and improve comfort. These upgrades can significantly reduce the health risks associated with living in cold and damp conditions.
Eligibility criteria for the ECO scheme
Understanding eligibility for the ECO scheme is crucial for accessing support to improve home energy efficiency. Various criteria determine whether you might qualify for funding and assistance.
- Means-tested benefits: Households receiving certain benefits may automatically qualify for the scheme.
- Low income (via LA Flex): Local authorities can identify low-income households that qualify through flexible eligibility criteria.
- EPC D-G: Homes with an Energy Performance Certificate rating from D to G are prioritised for improvements.
- Health issues: Individuals with health conditions worsened by cold homes might be eligible.
- Rural homes: Properties in remote areas often face unique energy challenges and can access specific support.
- Tenants: Both private and social renters can benefit, provided their homes meet certain criteria.
The ECO scheme helps make homes warmer and energy bills more manageable. Knowing your eligibility options is the first step to accessing these vital improvements.
Check Your Eligibility Using Our Grant Checker
Please ensure that all information provided below is 100% accurate. Any errors in your personal information could delay or prevent you qualifying for a government funded grant
Please note that you do not necessarily need to be in receipt of tax credits or benefits as we still may be able to obtain funding for you via your Council or through other funding schemes.
Energy-saving home upgrades and benefits
The ECO scheme provides various home upgrades to improve energy efficiency and comfort. These improvements can make a significant difference in reducing energy costs and enhancing the overall living environment.
- Loft, wall, and roof insulation: Keeps heat in, reducing energy bills and improving warmth.
- Central heating: Provides consistent and efficient warmth throughout the home.
- Electric heaters: Offers an upgrade for more effective and controlled heating.
- Renewables: Solar panels and other renewable technologies help cut down on energy bills and reduce carbon footprint.
- Boilers: Modern, efficient boilers ensure reliable and cost-effective heating.
- Ventilation: Enhances air quality and reduces dampness and condensation issues.
By investing in these upgrades, households can enjoy a warmer and healthier home while saving on energy costs. These improvements support a more sustainable future.
Steps to access the ECO scheme
Taking advantage of the ECO scheme involves a straightforward process to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Following these steps ensures you can access the support you need.
- Eligibility checker: Use an online tool to determine if you qualify for the scheme.
- Speak to an advisor: Get personalised guidance from an expert on your options and next steps.
- Book a free survey: Arrange for a qualified professional to assess your home’s energy efficiency needs.
- Install: Have the recommended upgrades installed by accredited professionals.
- Receive documents: Obtain all necessary paperwork confirming the work completed and any certifications.
Completing these steps helps ensure your home becomes more energy-efficient and cost-effective to run. The result is a comfortable living space with reduced energy bills.
Understanding MEES rules for rental properties
After understanding the steps to access the ECO scheme, it’s important to be aware of the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) rules for rental properties.
Band E minimum: Landlords must ensure their rental properties have an EPC rating of at least Band E.
ECO helps landlords comply: The ECO scheme can assist landlords in making necessary improvements to meet these standards.
Exemptions: Some properties may qualify for exemptions if they cannot achieve the minimum rating despite all possible improvements.
Complying with MEES rules not only meets legal requirements but also improves the property’s desirability and efficiency, benefiting both landlords and tenants.
Areas covered by Scottish Borders Council
The Scottish Borders Council provides comprehensive coverage across the region, ensuring services and support reach both major towns and rural areas. This extensive area includes a diverse mix of communities, each with unique needs and characteristics.
- Galashiels
- Hawick
- Peebles
- Kelso
- Jedburgh
- Selkirk
- Eyemouth
In addition to these towns, the council caters to the many rural areas scattered throughout the region, ensuring all residents benefit from local initiatives. This commitment to full coverage highlights the council’s dedication to serving the entire Scottish Borders area effectively.
Accessing limited ECO funding
The ECO scheme operates with a limited local allocation, meaning there is a set amount of funding available for energy efficiency upgrades in the area. It’s important to act quickly, as funding is typically distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, leaving those who delay at risk of missing out.
To help residents access this valuable support, a no-obligation eligibility check is available. This allows you to quickly determine if you qualify for the scheme without any commitment, making it easier for you to take the first step towards improving your home’s energy efficiency.
ECO scheme eligibility and standards
It’s important to note that the ECO scheme is unavailable to social housing tenants or residents in Northern Ireland. For Northern Ireland residents, the NI Housing Executive provides information and support for energy efficiency.
The scheme follows PAS 2035 compliance, ensuring all upgrades meet high standards for energy efficiency improvements. TrustMark installers carry out the work, giving you confidence in the quality and professionalism of the installations.
Your data is handled securely throughout the process, so your personal information remains protected. Eligibility for the scheme is confirmed during a free home survey, ensuring that your property meets the necessary criteria for funding.
How Energy Saving Grants can help you improve energy efficiency
At Energy Saving Grants, we specialise in helping homeowners, landlords, and small to medium-sized businesses access vital government funding for energy efficiency improvements. With years of experience, our expert team guides clients through the grant process, from initial eligibility checks to final installations. We focus on making your property more energy efficient, reducing bills and carbon footprints without the hassle.
Our services are here to ensure you benefit fully from available funding. Whether it’s securing insulation, upgrading heating systems, or integrating renewable energy solutions, we manage the entire process. We work with TrustMark-accredited installers to guarantee quality and compliance with standards like PAS 2035.
Don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your property’s energy performance. Use our Grant Checker form today to see if you qualify for these valuable grants. Invest in your property’s future and achieve better energy savings and comfort with our help.
Local insights into ECO grants in the Scottish Borders
Having explored the general details of grants and eligibility, it’s time to delve into more specific information relevant to your local area. The following sections offer valuable insights into how ECO grants are applied across various locations covered by Scottish Borders Council, highlighting the communities that benefit the most. You’ll also discover how local support structures make it easier for residents to access these funding opportunities, ensuring improved energy efficiency and comfort for all.
Introduction to Scottish Borders Council
Scottish Borders Council is situated in Newtown St Boswells, providing services to a diverse region rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Since its establishment in 1996, the Council has been actively engaged in managing local affairs and ensuring the well-being of its approximately 116,000 residents.
The Council focuses on a wide array of community services, including housing and energy advice, climate action initiatives, social care, and education. With a commitment to improving quality of life, Scottish Borders Council works to deliver effective and sustainable solutions that address the needs and challenges of the local communities it serves.
How Scottish Borders Council supports energy grants
Scottish Borders Council plays a key role in helping residents access ECO and LA Flex energy grants. By utilising local administration, the council streamlines the process, ensuring that residents receive the funding they need for energy efficiency upgrades.
- Galashiels: Focus on newer housing developments and helping residents upgrade insulation and heating systems.
- Hawick: Address older stone-built homes with flexible eligibility criteria under LA Flex to improve energy efficiency.
- Peebles: Assist residents in accessing verified installers for renewable energy solutions in traditional properties.
- Kelso: Provide support for modernisation projects in historic town homes to reduce energy costs.
- Jedburgh: Target rural homes with high energy bills, offering tailored solutions through ECO grants.
- Selkirk: Encourage upgrades that enhance home comfort and efficiency, particularly in older properties.
- Eyemouth: Facilitate access to funding for heating improvements in coastal homes, addressing specific local needs.
The partnership between Scottish Borders Council and Energy Saving Grants strengthens the support network, ensuring that funding is accessible and effective installations are carried out. Through flexible options and trusted local expertise, residents across these towns benefit from energy-efficient, cost-saving solutions.
Understanding LA Flex and its local benefits
LA Flex, or Local Authority Flexible Eligibility, is a part of the ECO scheme that allows councils to broaden the criteria for grant eligibility. Unlike traditional benefits-based access, LA Flex enables households that don’t receive such benefits to qualify for energy grants based on other factors like income, age, or health conditions.
Scottish Borders Council sets these local rules, tailoring the scheme to accommodate specific regional needs. This flexibility makes the ECO scheme more accessible to a wider range of residents, ensuring that those who might not otherwise receive support can still benefit from energy efficiency improvements.
Energy grant uptake across the Scottish Borders
Energy grant activity in the Scottish Borders varies significantly from one town to another, largely due to differences in property types and local needs. In Galashiels, for instance, many residents in new housing developments have taken advantage of grants for solar panel installation, which has become a popular upgrade. Meanwhile, in Hawick, where older stone-built homes are common, the focus is more on insulation improvements and boiler replacements, helping homeowners reduce heating costs.
In Peebles, where traditional properties dominate, grants have largely supported the installation of smart heating controls and loft insulation, providing better energy management in these homes. Conversely, in Eyemouth, a coastal town, there’s been an increased uptake in grants for external wall insulation and heating system upgrades, particularly in homes exposed to harsh weather conditions. These regional differences showcase how energy grants are tailored to meet the distinct needs of each community, promoting energy efficiency across the board.
Stay informed about ECO funding changes
ECO funding is issued in rounds, with each round having its specific allocation of resources and potentially different focus areas. This means that while a household might not qualify for the current round, future changes in eligibility criteria could open up new opportunities for funding. These changes can reflect shifts in national priorities or adjustments to local strategies, as determined by councils like Scottish Borders.
To make the most of these evolving opportunities, residents should stay informed about any updates to local policies and LA Flex guidelines. While it’s not always about applying immediately, being prepared and aware of changes ensures that you’re ready to take action when the criteria align with your circumstances. Keep an eye on announcements from Scottish Borders Council and other official sources for the latest information on energy grant eligibility.
Making homes efficient with local support
The delivery of energy grants at a local level, backed by Scottish Borders Council, ensures that support is tailored to the specific needs of each community. From the coastal homes in Eyemouth to the rural properties throughout the countryside, every resident has the opportunity to access funding and make their home warmer and more efficient. This approach underscores the importance of community-specific solutions and local council support in driving energy efficiency improvements across the region.
To take advantage of these opportunities, reach out to Energy Saving Grants today. Our team is ready to help you navigate the grant process and secure the upgrades your home needs. Contact us on 0330 223 0333 or email info@energysavinggrants.org to start your journey towards a more energy-efficient home.
Common questions about energy grants in the Scottish Borders
Residents can access a range of energy improvements, including insulation upgrades, heating system replacements, and renewable energy installations. Borderland Local Authority supports these upgrades, ensuring they meet the specific needs of the region’s diverse housing stock. These improvements aim to reduce energy costs and improve overall home comfort and efficiency.
Eligibility for energy grants can depend on various factors like income level, current EPC rating, and specific local criteria. Border Region Council Administration uses flexible guidelines such as LA Flex to broaden access, allowing more residents to qualify for funding. Checking these criteria regularly can help you stay informed about your eligibility.
Yes, Border Community Council assists both homeowners and private renters in accessing energy grants. Renters can benefit from funding designed to improve energy efficiency and reduce utility bills. It’s important for tenants to collaborate with their landlords to implement these improvements effectively.
Rural homes can indeed qualify for energy grants, as the scheme specifically recognises the unique challenges they face. Southern Bordershire Council works to ensure that more remote properties receive the necessary attention and funding to improve energy efficiency. The grant helps alleviate high energy costs often associated with off-grid homes in rural areas.
Landlords can apply for energy grants to upgrade the energy efficiency of their rental properties, meeting required standards like EPC ratings. Border Territory Council provides access to resources and information to help landlords make necessary improvements. This support aims to enhance property value and ensure tenants live in well-insulated, energy-efficient homes.
Check Your Eligibility Using Our Grant Checker
Please ensure that all information provided below is 100% accurate. Any errors in your personal information could delay or prevent you qualifying for a government funded grant
Please note that you do not necessarily need to be in receipt of tax credits or benefits as we still may be able to obtain funding for you via your Council or through other funding schemes.