Save on energy bills with the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) through Wiltshire Council
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
Many residents in Wiltshire struggle with high energy bills, especially in rural areas where homes often rely on costly oil or electric heating. The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, supported by Wiltshire Council, offers valuable assistance to these households. It helps low-income residents access grants for insulation and heating upgrades, reducing energy costs.
The ECO scheme is crucial for homeowners, as it provides financial support for energy improvements that might otherwise be unaffordable. This not only cuts energy bills but also makes homes warmer and more comfortable.
This page supports our content about ECO grants. You can find further information about Wiltshire by following this link. You can also find other in-depth information related to Swindon Borough Council by following this link.
Hear from those we've helped
Unlock energy savings with government funding
Curious about how to make your home more energy efficient? Energy Saving Grants specialises in helping locals tap into government funding for projects like insulation, heating systems, and renewable energy installations. We guide you through eligibility checks, assist with grant applications, and manage installations, ensuring you enjoy reduced energy bills and greater comfort. Keep reading to discover how you can take advantage of these opportunities.
Discover how ECO helps homeowners save energy
The ECO scheme aims to improve energy efficiency and lower energy costs for households in need. It tackles fuel poverty and reduces carbon emissions by providing energy-saving upgrades.
- Purpose: ECO helps to reduce fuel poverty and lower carbon emissions by improving home energy efficiency.
- How it works: The scheme funds energy-saving improvements in homes, helping to lower energy bills and increase comfort.
- Who funds it: Major energy suppliers across the UK fund the scheme, meeting government-set obligations.
- Upgrades it covers: ECO includes measures like insulation, heating system upgrades, and renewable energy installations.
- Target audience: The scheme targets low-income households, with local authorities like Wiltshire Council using LA Flex to broaden eligibility.
Explore how ECO can benefit your home and community.
Understanding local housing energy challenges
Wiltshire Council’s housing landscape presents unique energy challenges due to its diverse range of property types and locations. Understanding these can help identify where improvements can make the most impact.
- Type/age: The region features many older properties, including charming stone cottages and Victorian terraces.
- Heating fuels: A significant number of homes depend on oil or electric heating, as they are not connected to the gas grid.
- Urban vs rural gaps: Rural areas face additional challenges, such as higher costs and complexity of retrofitting.
- Poor EPC trends: Around 58% of homes have an EPC rating of D or below, highlighting the need for energy upgrades.
- Off-grid issues: Many rural households are off the main energy grid, relying on more expensive and less sustainable energy sources.
Addressing these issues is crucial for improving energy efficiency and reducing costs for Wiltshire residents.
Local energy challenges and needs
Energy statistics in the Wiltshire Council area highlight key challenges and opportunities for improving local energy efficiency. These figures reveal a significant need for energy upgrades and support.
- Older properties: Many of Wiltshire’s homes, like farmhouses and Victorian terraces, are older and less energy-efficient.
- Off-grid heating: A large number of homes rely on oil or electric heating due to being off the gas grid.
- Poor EPC ratings: About 58% of homes have an EPC rating of D or lower, especially in rural villages and market towns.
- Fuel poverty: In 2021, approximately 9.8% of households experienced fuel poverty, particularly in rural areas without gas connections.
- Retrofitting challenges: The dispersed nature of settlements and heritage constraints make retrofitting more complex and costly.
These statistics underscore the need for action and highlight the value of the ECO scheme in providing necessary energy upgrades and support.
Understanding EPC ratings and their impact
EPC ratings provide important insights into a property’s energy efficiency, influencing energy costs and comfort levels. Knowing where your home stands on the EPC scale can guide you in making cost-effective improvements.
- A: Homes with an A rating are the most energy-efficient, featuring very low energy use and minimal running costs.
- B & C: Properties with B or C ratings are above average in energy efficiency, resulting in moderate energy expenses.
- D: Most UK homes fall into the D category, which is considered average for energy efficiency.
- E, F & G: Homes with these ratings are the least efficient, often experiencing high energy use and costs, making them colder and challenging to heat.
Understanding these ratings is vital, as homes with lower EPC scores may lead to higher energy expenses, contributing to fuel poverty. Recognising and addressing EPC ratings can improve comfort and financial savings.
Addressing fuel poverty and health risks
Fuel poverty occurs when a household cannot afford to heat their home to a comfortable level. In areas like Salisbury, Trowbridge, and Chippenham, many homes face high energy costs due to older construction and inefficient heating systems. Households often have to make tough choices, like whether to heat their home or buy food, especially in colder months.
This situation not only impacts comfort but also poses significant health risks. Cold homes can lead to respiratory illnesses, stress, and other health problems. People in places like Devizes, Melksham, and Calne are particularly vulnerable during the winter. These challenges highlight the importance of addressing energy efficiency issues through support like the ECO scheme.
ECO funding helps residents in Warminster, Marlborough, and surrounding villages improve their home energy efficiency. It provides grants for insulation and heating upgrades, reducing costs and improving health outcomes. By targeting those most in need, ECO helps create warmer, healthier homes and reduces the risks associated with fuel poverty.
Eligibility for energy-saving support
Understanding who qualifies for energy-saving support can help ensure that those in need receive necessary assistance. The ECO scheme offers various eligibility routes to make improvements more accessible.
- Means-tested benefits: Households receiving certain benefits may qualify for support.
- Low income (via LA Flex): Local authorities can use LA Flex criteria to help low-income families access upgrades.
- EPC D-G: Homes with low EPC ratings are prioritised for efficiency improvements.
- Health issues: Residents with certain health conditions that are worsened by cold homes may be eligible.
- Rural homes: Properties in rural areas often face higher energy costs, making them eligible for support.
- Tenants: Renters can also qualify for schemes that improve rental property energy efficiency.
These routes ensure that the most vulnerable can improve their living conditions and reduce energy costs. By targeting specific groups, the ECO scheme helps create warmer, healthier homes for all.
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 upgrades and their benefits
Improving your home’s energy efficiency is a smart way to lower bills and enhance comfort. Various upgrades can make a significant difference in your home’s warmth and reduce energy costs.
- Loft, wall, and roof insulation: Keeps the heat in, reducing the need for constant heating and lowering energy bills.
- Central heating: Provides even warmth throughout the home, making it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature.
- Electric heaters: Newer, more efficient models can offer quick and targeted warmth.
- Renewables: Solar panels and other renewable options can cut energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
- Boilers: Modern, efficient boilers use less fuel, providing reliable warmth and saving money.
- Ventilation: Helps prevent damp and mould, improving air quality and aiding health.
These upgrades offer a range of benefits, from cost savings to increased comfort and better air quality. By investing in energy efficiency, you can enjoy a warmer, healthier home with lower utility bills.
Steps to improve your home's energy efficiency
Getting started with energy-saving improvements is straightforward and can lead to significant benefits for your home. Follow these simple steps to take advantage of available support and upgrades.
- Eligibility checker: Use an online tool to see if you qualify for energy-saving schemes.
- Speak to an advisor: Contact a specialist for guidance on available options and next steps.
- Book a free survey: Arrange for a professional assessment of your home’s energy needs.
- Install: Have the approved upgrades installed by qualified professionals.
- Receive documents: Obtain important paperwork detailing the installations and improvements.
Completing these steps can help you achieve a more energy-efficient home, leading to lower bills and increased comfort. Don’t hesitate to start this journey and enjoy the benefits of a well-insulated and greener home.
Understanding MEES and landlord responsibilities
Once you’ve decided to enhance your home’s energy efficiency, it’s essential to understand how regulations like the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) might impact landlords. These rules set clear expectations for property energy performance.
- Band E minimum: Properties must have at least an EPC rating of E to be legally rented out. This standard helps ensure rental homes are energy-efficient.
- How ECO helps landlords comply: The ECO scheme provides funding for necessary upgrades, assisting landlords in meeting MEES requirements.
- Exemptions: Certain properties may qualify for exemptions due to specific circumstances, such as listed status or impracticality of upgrades.
Understanding MEES is crucial for landlords to avoid penalties and maintain compliant properties. By leveraging ECO support, you can ensure your rental properties are energy-efficient and attractive to tenants.
Areas served by Wiltshire Council
Wiltshire Council provides comprehensive services across a broad region, ensuring both urban centres and rural communities receive full support. Here are the main towns and notable areas under its jurisdiction:
- Salisbury: Known for its iconic cathedral and historical significance.
- Trowbridge: The county town, with rich industrial heritage and amenities.
- Chippenham: A vibrant market town with strong transport links.
- Devizes: Famous for its historic market square and canal.
- Melksham: Offers a mix of rural charm and modern conveniences.
- Calne: Known for its beautiful countryside and friendly community.
- Warminster: A town with rich history and proximity to Longleat.
- Marlborough: Features a picturesque high street and historic architecture.
- Rural coverage: The council also supports dozens of villages, ensuring that remote and rural areas receive necessary services.
Wiltshire Council’s commitment to covering these diverse areas guarantees that all residents, whether in bustling towns or secluded countryside, benefit from local resources and support.
Accessing ECO funding in Wiltshire
Funding for energy efficiency improvements through the ECO scheme often operates on a limited local allocation basis. This means there is a set amount of resources available for residents in areas covered by Wiltshire Council. The scheme typically runs on a first-come-first-served model, so it’s beneficial to act quickly if you’re interested in applying for support.
Residents can take advantage of a no-obligation eligibility check to see if they qualify for assistance. This simple step helps you understand your available options without any commitment. By acting swiftly, you maximise your chances of receiving funding for vital home upgrades that can lower energy costs and improve comfort.
ECO scheme requirements and exclusions
The ECO scheme comes with specific requirements and exclusions to ensure proper distribution of benefits. It’s important to note that ECO funding is not available to residents of social housing or those living in Northern Ireland. For residents in Northern Ireland, support may be available through the NI Housing Executive.
To maintain high standards, all installations under the ECO scheme must comply with PAS 2035, a framework that ensures quality in retrofit projects. Only TrustMark-accredited installers carry out these upgrades, providing assurance of their expertise and reliability.
Your data during the application process is handled securely, ensuring your personal information remains protected. Eligibility for the scheme is confirmed during a home survey, so it’s crucial to complete this step to access available support.
Partner with Energy Saving Grants for energy efficiency
Energy Saving Grants is here to guide you in accessing the energy efficiency grants you need. With years of experience, our team excels at helping homeowners, landlords, and small to medium-sized businesses navigate the complex world of government funding. We’re dedicated to simplifying the process, ensuring you benefit from improved energy efficiency through upgrades like insulation and heating systems.
Our services begin with a straightforward eligibility check, which is entirely free and without obligation. If eligible, we take you through the grant application process, coordinate the installations with TrustMark-accredited professionals, and ensure secure handling of all data. Partnering with us means you gain expert support in securing grants that make your home or property more energy-efficient.
Don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your property’s energy performance. Use our Grant Checker form today to find out if you qualify for government-funded improvements. Let us help you lower your energy bills and make your home more comfortable and sustainable.
Exploring local impact of ECO grants
After exploring the details of grant eligibility and the application process, it’s important to consider how these opportunities translate at a local level. The following sections will provide insight into how ECO grants function across different areas under the jurisdiction of Wiltshire Council. We’ll also look at who benefits most and how local support can make accessing these grants easier for residents.
Introducing Wiltshire Council
Wiltshire Council serves as the unitary authority responsible for providing essential local services across the Wiltshire region. Established in 2009, it brought together the former Wiltshire County Council and district councils to form a single, unified body. The Council operates from its headquarters at County Hall in Trowbridge, strategically located to serve the county effectively.
The Council delivers a wide range of services crucial to residents’ daily lives. From planning and housing to social care and education, it ensures the community’s well-being and development. Additionally, the Council takes active steps in economic development and environmental sustainability, with a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 in response to the declared Climate Emergency.
Accessing energy grants through Wiltshire Council
Wiltshire Council collaborates with initiatives like Energy Saving Grants to facilitate access to ECO and LA Flex energy grants for local residents. This local administration ensures that funding is more accessible, using flexible eligibility criteria and verified installers to help homeowners and landlords make energy-efficient upgrades. Here’s how support is tailored across different areas:
- Salisbury: Known for its historic homes, residents can benefit from grants to improve energy efficiency in these often challenging properties.
- Trowbridge: As the county town, grants here help modernise heating and insulation in many older urban residences.
- Chippenham: A growing market town where newer and older homes alike are eligible for energy-saving installations.
- Devizes: Residents of this market town can access tailored support for traditional and heritage properties.
- Melksham: Grants assist in upgrading mix developments, ensuring both old and new homes are energy efficient.
- Calne: With its combination of rural and town homes, energy funding helps address varied local needs, especially off-grid properties.
- Warminster: Energy grants here improve the warmth and insulation of homes, enhancing comfort and reducing costs.
- Marlborough: Known for prestigious historic architecture, support ensures heritage properties maintain efficiency.
- Villages: Dozens of rural villages benefit from targeted assistance for countryside homes, many of which rely on alternative energy sources.
These localised efforts by Wiltshire Council help residents navigate the funding process more easily, ensuring that the unique energy needs of each area are met. With the backing of Energy Saving Grants, residents can confidently pursue sustainable home improvements.
Understanding LA Flex eligibility criteria
LA Flex, or Local Authority Flexible Eligibility, is a component of the ECO scheme designed to make energy grants more accessible to households that don’t qualify through traditional benefit routes. Wiltshire Council establishes specific local rules to determine which residents can access this support. This flexibility allows families and individuals to qualify based on factors like income level, age, or health conditions, rather than solely on whether they receive specific benefits.
By tailoring the eligibility criteria to meet local needs, Wiltshire Council ensures that more residents within their jurisdiction can benefit from energy-saving improvements. This approach helps address the unique circumstances of homes in areas like rural villages or historic towns, making energy efficiency upgrades accessible to a wider audience.
Variations in energy grant activity across Wiltshire
Energy grant activity in Wiltshire varies significantly across the region, reflecting the diverse needs and characteristics of its towns and villages. In Salisbury, many residents take advantage of funding to upgrade insulation in historic stone cottages that require special attention to maintain both efficiency and heritage value. In Chippenham, newer housing developments see a high uptake of solar panel installations, using grants to offset initial costs and boost energy independence.
In rural areas and smaller villages throughout Wiltshire, such as the quaint homes around Marlborough and Devizes, upgrading electric heating systems and adding loft insulation are popular improvements. These upgrades are crucial for managing higher energy costs often faced by homes that are off the main gas grid. Meanwhile, Trowbridge, with its mix of suburban and older urban properties, shows robust interest in central heating updates and energy-efficient double glazing, as residents work to modernise their homes for better energy performance. Each area’s unique housing needs are met through tailored energy grant solutions.
Staying informed about ECO funding changes
ECO funding is released in rounds, which means that the availability of grants and the eligibility criteria can change over time. Each round may introduce new priorities or adjust the focus on specific types of improvements, depending on national and local energy-saving goals. Wiltshire Council may update its local criteria to better align with these evolving guidelines, which can impact who qualifies for support under schemes like LA Flex.
It’s important for residents to stay informed about these changes to ensure they can take advantage of upcoming opportunities when needed. Whether through local announcements or checking online resources, keeping up-to-date with any shifts in ECO funding rounds or local eligibility guidelines can be beneficial. By staying prepared, homeowners and landlords in Wiltshire can ensure they are ready to access energy-saving support when the conditions are right.
Making homes warmer with local support
Local delivery of energy grants, tailored to the unique needs of Wiltshire’s communities, ensures that residents from coast to countryside can access the support they need. Council initiatives like ECO and LA Flex, combined with community-specific grant access, make it possible for every resident to improve their home’s warmth and efficiency. This local approach means that the help provided is deeply rooted in the individual needs of each area, offering meaningful and lasting change.
Take the next step towards a more energy-efficient home with Energy Saving Grants. Our team is ready to guide you through the process and help you secure the funding you need. Contact us today at 0330 223 0333 or email info@energysavinggrants.org to learn more about how we can assist you with local grant opportunities.
Frequently asked questions about Wiltshire Council energy grants
You can apply for various improvements such as insulation, heating system upgrades, and renewable energy installations. The unitary authority of Wiltshire focuses on helping residents reduce energy costs and improve home comfort. Each measure is designed to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Eligibility can vary, but generally, residents receiving certain benefits or those with low incomes may qualify. The Wiltshire local authority also considers properties with low EPC ratings or specific health conditions. It’s important to check local criteria, as they can change based on programme updates.
LA Flex is a programme that allows Wiltshire local authority to set flexible eligibility criteria for energy grants. This enables more households, particularly those not qualifying through traditional routes, to access financial support. The aim is to address the specific needs of various communities within the region.
Yes, landlords can apply for energy grants to help their properties meet required energy efficiency standards. The council of Wiltshire provides grants to improve rental properties, ensuring they comply with regulations like the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). This benefits both landlords and tenants by creating greener, more efficient homes.
The criteria for energy grants can change with each funding round. Updates are made to align with national objectives and the local needs of communities served by the Wiltshire governing body. It’s beneficial to stay informed about any modifications to access future funding opportunities.
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.