Lower your energy bills in Kinross-shire with the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme
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
Kinross-shire residents face high energy bills, particularly in older stone homes and rural properties. The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme provides solutions by funding insulation and heating system upgrades, helping to lower these costs. This aid targets low-income and vulnerable households, offering essential support.
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme is crucial for homeowners to reduce energy expenses and improve living conditions. By making homes more energy-efficient, it eases financial pressure and enhances comfort.
This page supports our content about ECO energy grants and you can find other in-depth information about boiler grant eligibility by following this link. You can also explore more local information through our county hub to see what energy-saving options are available in your area.
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Discover how Energy Saving Grants can benefit you
Have you considered how much you could save on energy bills? Energy Saving Grants specialises in helping locals in Kinross-shire access government funding through the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme. We guide you through eligibility checks, grant applications, and installation coordination. This means lower energy costs and greater comfort in your home or business. Read on to discover how you can benefit from these savings.
Understanding the ECO scheme and its benefits in Kinross-shire
The ECO scheme aims to reduce fuel poverty and lower carbon emissions. It offers vital support to those in need by providing funding for home energy improvements. Here’s a quick overview of how ECO works and who benefits:
- Purpose: ECO focuses on reducing fuel poverty and decreasing carbon emissions by improving home energy efficiency.
- How it works: Large energy suppliers fund ECO, providing the financial resources needed for insulation and heating system upgrades.
- Funding source: The scheme is funded by major energy suppliers, ensuring that the necessary improvements can be made in eligible homes.
- Upgrades covered: ECO supports a wide range of upgrades, including insulation, heating systems, and renewable energy installations.
- Target audience: The scheme mainly targets low-income and vulnerable households, with additional support through LA Flex from the local council to reach more residents.
ECO helps Kinross-shire residents improve their homes, save on bills, and support a greener environment.
Housing challenges and energy needs
Kinross-shire’s housing reflects its rich history and varied landscape, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for energy efficiency improvements.
- Type and age: The area features a mix of older stone homes and modern commuter developments.
- Heating fuels: Many homes rely on traditional heating fuels like oil and gas due to the area’s rural nature.
- Urban vs rural gaps: There is a noticeable gap in energy efficiency between urban areas and more isolated rural properties.
- Poor EPC trends: Many homes in the region have low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings, indicating a need for energy efficiency upgrades.
- Off-grid issues: Several properties are off-grid, lacking access to mains gas and requiring alternative solutions for heating and electricity.
Addressing these issues is essential for improving energy efficiency and reducing costs for Kinross-shire residents.
Local energy challenges and statistics
Local energy statistics in Kinross-shire highlight the area’s energy challenges and underscore the need for effective solutions. These figures reveal patterns in fuel poverty, energy efficiency, and heating costs that impact residents.
- Fuel poverty affects approximately 31% of households in rural areas like Kinross-shire, above the national average of 24%.
- Extreme fuel poverty impacts 12–15% of rural households, suggesting significant hardship for some residents.
- While 48% of homes nationally achieve an EPC rating of band C or better, many older rural cottages in Kinross-shire fall into bands D–E.
- Modern commuter housing near Kinross usually performs better in energy efficiency ratings.
- 6mOff-grid properties face heating costs 25–40% higher than those with access to mains gas, primarily relying on oil or electric heating.
This data highlights the urgent need for action, demonstrating how the ECO scheme can help improve energy efficiency and reduce fuel poverty in Kinross-shire.
Energy insights and solutions
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) acts as a valuable tool for understanding a property’s energy consumption, typical costs, and potential improvements. Required by law when a property is built, sold, or rented, an EPC offers a clear insight into energy efficiency and provides a roadmap for enhancing it.
The EPC rating scale ranges from A to G, with each grade indicating a different level of energy efficiency:
- A (most efficient): These properties boast minimal energy use and low running costs, setting the standard for energy efficiency.
- B & C: Representing above-average efficiency, these homes incur moderate energy costs and have more sustainable operational demands.
- D: As the typical rating for UK homes, properties in this category are eligible for certain improvement schemes to increase efficiency and reduce expense.
- E, F & G (least efficient): Characterised by high energy consumption and substantial running costs, these homes are often poorly insulated, challenging to heat, and expensive to maintain, contributing to potential fuel poverty.
Understanding and addressing EPC ratings is crucial for homeowners, landlords, and councils aiming to enhance energy efficiency and reduce costs. By focusing on properties rated D to G, improvements can be targeted where they will make the most significant difference, helping alleviate issues linked to fuel poverty and paving the way for a more sustainable energy future.
Addressing fuel poverty in Kinross-shire
Fuel poverty is a pressing issue in Kinross-shire, where high heating costs and low energy efficiency impact many households. In areas like Kinross and Milnathort, residents face the difficult choice between heating their homes or buying food, especially in older cottages and farmhouses. Even in modern commuter housing around Kinross, some families struggle with affordability despite better energy performance.
This situation presents significant health risks. Cold homes can lead to respiratory conditions and other health problems, putting vulnerable groups like the elderly and children at risk. In villages such as Cleish, Crook of Devon, Scotlandwell, and Glenfarg, where traditional homes are difficult to insulate, the problem is more pronounced.
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme provides much-needed support. It helps residents improve home insulation and upgrade heating systems, reducing costs and health risks associated with cold homes. ECO is essential in areas with older housing stock, offering hope to those affected by fuel poverty across Kinross-shire.
Eligibility for the ECO scheme in Kinross-shire
Understanding the eligibility for the ECO scheme can help residents of Kinross-shire access the benefits they need to make their homes more energy-efficient. The scheme offers several routes to qualify, ensuring support reaches those who need it most.
- Means-tested benefits: Households receiving certain benefits may automatically qualify.
- Low income (via LA Flex): Local Authority Flexible Eligibility (LA Flex) allows councils to extend support to low-income households not receiving benefits.
- EPC D–G: Homes with Energy Performance Certificate ratings of D to G are eligible due to their lower energy efficiency.
- Health issues: Those with specific health problems exacerbated by cold conditions may qualify for assistance.
- Rural homes: Homes in rural areas, where energy costs are often higher, can also be eligible.
- Tenants: Private and social housing tenants can access improvements, provided permission is granted by landlords.
By understanding these eligibility routes, you can better access the resources needed to improve your home’s energy efficiency. This can lead to reduced energy bills and a more comfortable living environment in Kinross-shire.
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.
Home energy upgrades and their benefits
Energy efficiency upgrades can significantly improve comfort and lower energy bills in homes across Kinross-shire. By focusing on effective solutions, residents can tackle fuel poverty and enhance their living conditions.
- Loft, wall, and roof insulation: Keeps heat inside your home, reducing energy use and making heating more efficient.
- Central heating: Upgrading to a modern system ensures consistent warmth, improving overall comfort.
- Electric heaters: More efficient models can provide targeted heat in specific rooms, saving on energy costs.
- Renewable energy installations: Options like solar panels can lower bills and reduce environmental impact.
- Boilers: Replacing an old boiler with an efficient one can lead to significant savings and improved heating performance.
- Ventilation improvements: Proper ventilation reduces dampness and improves air quality without losing warmth.
Implementing these upgrades helps create a more energy-efficient home, leading to long-term savings and a healthier living environment. Residents of Kinross-shire can greatly benefit from these improvements, addressing both cost and comfort issues.
Steps to access ECO support
Accessing the support of the ECO scheme involves a straightforward process to make your home more energy-efficient. The following steps can guide you through from eligibility to successful installation.
- Eligibility checker: Start by using an online tool to see if you qualify for the scheme.
- Speak to an advisor: Contact an expert who can provide personalised advice and guide you through the next steps.
- Book a free survey: Arrange for a professional to assess your home and identify the most effective energy-saving measures.
- Install: Get the recommended upgrades installed by certified professionals to ensure quality and reliability.
- Receive documents: After installation, you’ll receive documentation confirming the improvements and any warranties.
By following these steps, you can ensure your home benefits from the energy-saving measures available through the ECO scheme, leading to reduced bills and improved comfort.
Meeting MEES with ECO support
After understanding how to access the ECO scheme, it’s crucial to consider how these improvements align with regulatory standards for rental properties. The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) play an important role in this context.
- Band E minimum: MEES requires rental properties to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of at least Band E. Properties below this rating need upgrades to meet the standard.
- ECO assistance for landlords: The ECO scheme helps landlords comply by funding necessary energy upgrades like insulation and efficient heating.
- Exemptions: Some properties may qualify for exemptions, such as those where upgrades are not cost-effective or feasible due to building specifics.
Adhering to MEES rules not only keeps landlords compliant but also enhances tenants’ living conditions by making homes warmer and more energy-efficient. The ECO scheme offers a valuable route for achieving these standards.
Act quickly for ECO funding opportunities
The ECO scheme operates with a limited local allocation of funding, meaning resources available for support are finite. Because of this, the scheme often works on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s important for eligible residents in Kinross-shire to act swiftly to take advantage of the opportunities for energy efficiency upgrades.
You can begin the process with a no-obligation eligibility check. This allows you to see if your household qualifies for the scheme without any commitment. Acting quickly can help you secure the necessary upgrades to reduce energy bills and improve your home’s comfort.
Important ECO scheme details and requirements
While the ECO scheme offers great benefits, it is important to note that it is not available to social housing tenants or residents of Northern Ireland. For those in Northern Ireland seeking energy efficiency improvements, the NI Housing Executive can provide guidance and assistance.
The scheme requires compliance with PAS 2035 standards, ensuring that all work meets high quality and performance criteria. Only TrustMark registered installers carry out installations, offering assurance of reliability and professionalism. When you participate in the ECO scheme, rest assured that your personal data is handled securely and confidentially. Finally, your eligibility is confirmed during the free survey, ensuring that your home receives the appropriate improvements.
Start your energy efficiency journey with Energy Saving Grants
Energy Saving Grants was established to help homeowners, landlords, and small to medium-sized businesses access government funding for energy improvements. We specialise in making the process easy, from eligibility checks to installations, ensuring that you can take full advantage of available grants. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you reduce energy costs and improve property comfort.
We begin with a free, no-obligation consultation to determine your eligibility for various grants. Our professional advisors provide personalised guidance, while our partnerships with TrustMark accredited installers ensure quality workmanship. Whether you’re looking to insulate your home, upgrade heating systems, or explore renewable energy options, we manage every step of the process.
Take the first step toward a more energy-efficient property by using our Grant Checker form today. It’s a quick and straightforward way to see what funding options may be available to you. We invite you to join the many satisfied clients who have already benefited from our seamless service and commitment to energy savings.
Local council support for energy efficiency
Having explored the general process of accessing grants and understanding eligibility, we can now delve into how these opportunities play out within Kinross-shire. This upcoming section offers valuable insights on how local councils, particularly Perth and Kinross Council, enhance access to energy efficiency programmes like ECO. Through their targeted support and initiatives, these councils simplify the path to a warmer, more energy-efficient home.
The role of councils in community welfare
Councils play a crucial role in local governance, acting as the backbone for community welfare and development. They manage essential services that directly impact residents’ daily lives, including waste management, community safety, and public amenities. By handling these responsibilities, councils ensure that communities run smoothly and efficiently.
In addition to providing services, councils are vital for representing local interests and priorities. They serve as a bridge between residents and government, advocating for community needs and facilitating public engagement. Through consultation and collaboration, councils help shape policies and programmes that reflect the unique character and requirements of their areas.
Council governance in Kinross-shire
Kinross-shire, while having a strong local identity, operates under the governance of larger regional councils. This shift has streamlined services and resources, ensuring that the area benefits from more extensive support and expertise.
- Perth and Kinross Council: This unitary authority manages the region, overseeing services such as education, housing, and transport for Kinross-shire.
Although Kinross-shire no longer has its own county council, integration with Perth and Kinross Council allows for comprehensive management and improved resource allocation, addressing the needs of its residents effectively.
Flexible eligibility through LA Flex
LA Flex, or Local Authority Flexible Eligibility, is a component of the ECO scheme that allows councils to establish their own criteria for determining eligibility for energy efficiency grants. This flexibility means that households that don’t qualify through the traditional benefits route can still access support. Factors such as income, age, or specific health conditions can be considered when assessing eligibility, expanding access to those who need it most.
Councils set these local rules based on the unique needs and priorities of their communities. This tailored approach ensures that energy efficiency initiatives target the most vulnerable populations effectively, addressing local challenges more accurately. LA Flex empowers councils to respond to their residents’ specific circumstances, making the scheme truly adaptable and beneficial for various households.
Variations in energy grant uptake across councils
Energy grant activity can vary significantly across different councils based on local needs and priorities. In a town like Kinross, within Perth and Kinross Council, there may be a high uptake of grants for modernising insulation in traditional stone houses. Due to the mix of older properties and newer developments, loft and wall insulations are especially popular, improving energy efficiency and reducing heating costs for residents. The presence of commuter housing also means that solar panel installations have seen increasing demand as homeowners look for sustainable energy options.
In smaller villages such as Milnathort, the focus might shift more towards upgrading heating systems in older cottages. Here, air source heat pumps have become a common improvement, providing a cost-effective way to heat homes off the mains gas grid. Similarly, external wall insulations are frequently installed in older, solid-wall properties to enhance warmth and to protect against dampness. These targeted activities demonstrate how councils can tailor energy grant offerings to suit the local housing stock and community needs.
Stay informed about ECO funding changes
ECO funding is released in rounds, and with each new round, there can be changes to the eligibility criteria and available programmes. These adjustments are made to reflect evolving priorities and to ensure that support reaches those most in need. As a result, the types of improvements covered and the specific conditions for qualifying can change over time, impacting who can benefit from the funding.
Residents should stay informed about these updates to remain prepared for future opportunities. Keeping an eye on changes to local policies and LA Flex guidelines ensures you’re ready to take advantage when the time is right. By staying informed, you can be proactive and ensure your home or business can benefit from the most current and relevant energy efficiency improvements when the next round of funding becomes available.
Empowering Kinross-shire with local energy solutions
Local delivery of energy grants is vital to ensuring that each community’s unique needs are met. Council support and community-specific access to grants mean that from the coast to the countryside, every resident in Kinross-shire has the opportunity to make their home warmer and more efficient. This tailored approach helps harness local knowledge and resources, empowering residents to take advantage of improvements that directly benefit their living conditions.
For personalised assistance in accessing these opportunities, turn to Energy Saving Grants. Our team is ready to guide you through the process and help you make the most of available funding. Contact us today at 0330 223 0333 or email us at info@energysavinggrants.org to start your journey towards a more energy-efficient home.
Energy grants FAQs for Kinross-shire residents
The ECO scheme is a UK government programme aimed at improving energy efficiency in homes, particularly for low-income households. Large energy suppliers fund this initiative, which provides support for insulation, heating upgrades, and renewable energy installations. In the county of Kinross, residents can benefit from these improvements to help lower their energy bills and enhance home comfort.
Eligibility for energy grants typically includes households receiving certain benefits, those with low incomes, and properties with low EPC ratings. The Local Authority Flexible Eligibility (LA Flex) allows councils to consider factors like income and health, offering more local residents in the Kinross area the chance to qualify. Checking current criteria and staying informed about updates is essential for potential applicants.
LA Flex is part of the ECO scheme that gives councils the ability to set their own criteria for grant eligibility, based on the unique needs of their community. This flexibility means that even those who don’t receive traditional benefits might qualify for assistance. For the Kinross region, this can make a significant difference by offering support to a wider range of households.
Energy grants can cover a variety of improvements, including loft and wall insulation, new boilers, heating system upgrades, and renewable energy solutions like solar panels. These measures aim to increase energy efficiency and reduce costs for households. In the Kinross locality, popular upgrades address both modern and traditional housing needs.
Yes, tenants can be eligible for energy grants, though landlord permission is typically required for any work to be done. Improvements can greatly benefit both landlords and tenants by increasing property value and reducing energy expenses. In the Kinross district, both private and social housing tenants can access these grants, provided the necessary approvals are in place.
ECO grants in Kinross-shire are typically offered by local councils to support energy efficiency improvements in homes. In Kinross-shire, the relevant council is:
- Perth and Kinross Council (part)
Boiler grants in Kinross-shire may be available through local governmental initiatives aimed at improving energy efficiency. To find out if you’re eligible, it’s important to contact your local council directly.
- Perth and Kinross Council (part)
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.