Energy Company Obligation (ECO) brings energy savings to Norfolk County households
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 of Norfolk County face high energy bills, largely due to off-gas-grid housing and low wages. The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme offers solutions by funding energy efficiency improvements, such as insulation and heating upgrades, for low-income households. This support helps reduce energy costs and carbon emissions.
The scheme is important for homeowners because it not only cuts energy bills but also increases home comfort and sustainability. By making energy efficiency upgrades more accessible, ECO supports a healthier living environment for all.
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.
Hear from those we've helped
Unlock energy savings with our expert guidance
Curious about how to make the most of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) in Norfolk County? Energy Saving Grants can guide you. We specialise in helping locals access government funding for energy efficiency upgrades, from insulation and heating systems to renewable energy installations. Our streamlined process simplifies everything, ensuring eligibility assessment, grant applications, and installation coordination. Discover how you can achieve lower energy bills and a more comfortable home by exploring further.
Understanding the benefits of the ECO scheme
The ECO scheme is designed to reduce fuel poverty and lower carbon emissions in the UK. It connects eligible households with funding for energy efficiency improvements, playing a crucial role in making homes warmer and more cost-effective. Here’s how ECO works and who it benefits:
- Purpose: ECO aims to reduce fuel poverty by improving household energy efficiency and cutting carbon emissions.
- How It Works: Major energy suppliers provide funding for energy improvements, which are then implemented in eligible homes.
- Funding: The scheme is funded by these energy suppliers as part of their obligation to support energy-saving measures.
- Upgrades Covered: ECO supports a range of upgrades, including insulation, heating systems, and renewable energy installations.
- Target Audience: The scheme primarily aids low-income and vulnerable households, ensuring they gain access to energy-saving solutions.
Local councils, with the support of the LA Flex programme, play a key role in facilitating the ECO initiative, ensuring that those who need it most can benefit. For Norfolk County residents, this means warmer homes and lower bills.
Challenges in local housing
Norfolk County offers a diverse mix of housing, each with its own challenges and opportunities for energy efficiency. Here’s a closer look at the housing landscape in this region:
- Type/Age: The county features a variety of homes, including older brick and flint cottages, Victorian terraces, and post-war estates.
- Heating Fuels: Many homes rely on alternative heating fuels due to the lack of a widespread gas grid.
- Urban vs. Rural Gaps: Urban areas generally have better access to energy resources compared to their rural counterparts.
- Poor EPC Trends: Many properties have low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings, indicating significant potential for efficiency improvements.
- Off-Grid Issues: Numerous homes are off-grid, facing higher energy costs and limited fuel options.
Addressing these housing challenges through targeted energy efficiency measures can result in significant benefits for Norfolk County’s residents, enhancing both comfort and affordability.
Local energy challenges
Local energy statistics in Norfolk County reveal significant challenges in energy use and affordability. These figures highlight the urgent need for action to improve energy efficiency across the region.
- Fuel Poverty: In Norfolk, 15–17% of households experience fuel poverty, higher than the national average of 13%.
- Severe Fuel Poverty: About 6% of households, particularly in rural and coastal areas, are in severe fuel poverty.
- EPC Ratings: Many homes in Norfolk, including older cottages, fall in the D–E EPC rating bands, compared to 42% of homes nationally achieving a C or better.
- Heating Costs: Villages off the gas grid often use oil, LPG, or solid fuels, costing 25–40% more than gas heating.
- Coastal Housing: Poor insulation in coastal homes leads to higher heating costs and increased risks of dampness.
These statistics underscore the importance of initiatives like the ECO scheme, which can address these issues by improving energy efficiency and reducing costs for Norfolk’s residents.
Understanding EPC ratings
An EPC rating reveals a property’s energy efficiency and potential costs, guiding decisions for improvements and investments. It plays a key role in elevating living standards and addressing fuel poverty.
- A–C: Homes with these ratings are energy efficient, with low energy use and running costs.
- D: This is the average rating for UK homes and is eligible for schemes like ECO to enhance efficiency.
- E–G: These ratings signify poor efficiency, with high energy use and costs. Homes in this range can greatly benefit from upgrade investments.
- Link to Upgrades: Ratings help identify properties needing insulation improvements, heating system updates, and better windows and doors.
Understanding EPC ratings helps in making informed decisions about energy upgrades, supporting efforts to reduce running costs and improve comfort.
Addressing fuel poverty in Norfolk
Fuel poverty occurs when a household cannot afford to keep their home adequately warm due to high energy costs and low income. In Norfolk, residents in areas like Great Yarmouth and Norwich often face difficult choices, such as whether to heat their homes or buy food. Deprivation in these towns, combined with inefficient housing, exacerbates the issue, leaving many vulnerable to the cold.
Fuel poverty isn’t just an economic issue; it directly impacts health. Cold homes can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular problems, affecting the well-being of residents. This is particularly concerning in off-grid areas like North Norfolk villages, where high heating costs force difficult choices. In places like the Broads communities, isolation adds another layer of challenge in accessing affordable energy.
ECO support offers a vital lifeline for those in fuel poverty, focusing on improving energy efficiency. By targeting areas such as King’s Lynn and Thetford, ECO helps upgrade poor-quality housing, providing better insulation and heating solutions. These improvements can make a significant difference, reducing energy costs and improving health outcomes for Norfolk residents.
Eligibility for ECO scheme
Understanding the eligibility criteria for the ECO scheme can help households across Norfolk access crucial energy efficiency improvements. This support is available to a wide range of residents, ensuring that those in need can benefit from warmer homes and reduced energy bills.
- Means-Tested Benefits: Households receiving benefits like Universal Credit may qualify.
- Low Income: Eligibility can also be determined through local authority flexibility (LA Flex) for households with low income.
- EPC D–G: Homes with an EPC rating of D to G are eligible for ECO funding.
- Health Issues: Residents with specific health conditions aggravated by cold homes may qualify.
- Rural Homes: Properties in rural areas with limited access to affordable energy options are considered.
- Tenants: Renters whose landlords are willing to improve energy efficiency can also apply.
Identifying whether you meet these criteria is the first step toward accessing ECO support. Taking advantage of this scheme can significantly lower energy costs and improve home comfort for those in eligible households.
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.
ECO home energy upgrades
Upgrades available through the ECO scheme can transform your home’s energy efficiency, making it warmer and more affordable to run. Each improvement targets specific areas to enhance comfort and reduce costs.
- Loft, Wall, and Roof Insulation: Keeps heat in, reducing energy bills and making your home comfortable.
- Central Heating: Provides efficient and consistent warmth throughout your home.
- Electric Heaters: Modern units offer cost-effective heating solutions for smaller spaces.
- Renewables: Solar panels and heat pumps harness renewable energy, cutting long-term costs.
- Boilers: New, energy-efficient boilers reduce fuel consumption and heating costs.
- Ventilation: Improves air quality and helps prevent moisture and mould.
These upgrades not only save money but also significantly improve your living conditions. By investing in energy efficiency, you contribute to a more sustainable future while enjoying the immediate benefits of a more comfortable home.
Steps to access ECO support
Navigating the ECO scheme process is straightforward and designed to ensure you get the most benefit from available upgrades. Each step brings you closer to a more energy-efficient home.
- Eligibility Checker: Start by using an online tool to confirm if your household qualifies for ECO support.
- Speak to an Advisor: Get personalised advice on potential improvements and next steps.
- Book a Free Survey: Arrange for a professional assessment of your home to identify the best energy-saving measures.
- Install: Qualified contractors will carry out the necessary upgrades at your convenience.
- Receive Documents: Obtain completion documents confirming the improvements and any new energy ratings.
Following these steps allows you to maximise the benefits of the ECO scheme, leading to long-term savings and enhanced home comfort.
Understanding MEES compliance
Once you’ve accessed ECO support to improve your home’s energy efficiency, it’s essential to understand the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) rules that apply, especially for landlords. These regulations ensure rental properties meet minimum energy standards, benefitting tenants and property owners alike.
- Band E Minimum: All rental properties must have an EPC rating of at least band E to be legally let.
- ECO Assistance: The ECO scheme provides funding for upgrades that help landlords improve properties and comply with MEES standards.
- Exemptions: Certain properties may be exempt from MEES, such as those where improvements are not cost-effective or feasible.
Understanding MEES rules and how the ECO scheme can assist ensures landlords maintain compliance while offering tenants energy-efficient homes. This leads to a more sustainable housing market and improved living conditions.
Securing ECO funding
Funding through the ECO scheme is limited and allocated locally, ensuring that those most in need can benefit from energy efficiency improvements. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning it’s important to act quickly to secure funding for your home upgrades.
The process starts with a no-obligation eligibility check, which helps you understand whether your household qualifies for the scheme. This initial step is crucial for accessing the improvements that can reduce your energy bills and improve your home’s comfort.
ECO scheme requirements and availability
The ECO scheme is not available to social housing tenants or residents of Northern Ireland. For those in Northern Ireland, energy efficiency services can be accessed through the NI Housing Executive.
All installations and upgrades carried out under the ECO scheme must comply with PAS 2035 standards, ensuring high-quality work. These improvements are completed by TrustMark-registered installers, guaranteeing you receive service you can trust.
Your data’s security and privacy are prioritised, with strict measures in place to handle your information securely. Eligibility for the ECO scheme is confirmed during a professional survey of your home, providing a clear pathway to the improvements needed for enhanced energy efficiency.
How Energy Saving Grants can help you
As you explore the process of securing ECO funding, consider how Energy Saving Grants can assist you in accessing these valuable grants. Established with the mission of helping UK residents, our expertise lies in guiding homeowners, landlords, and small businesses through the complexities of government-funded energy efficiency projects. Our dedicated team specialises in assessing eligibility, assisting with applications, and coordinating installations for a variety of upgrades, including insulation and heating systems.
We take pride in offering a streamlined service that not only improves your property’s energy efficiency but also leads to significant cost savings and enhanced comfort. From initial consultations to secured installations, we handle each step with professionalism and care, working with TrustMark-accredited partners to ensure high standards.
Take the first step toward more energy-efficient living by using our Grant Checker form today. Our no-cost eligibility checks clarify your options, and our experienced advisors are ready to assist you throughout the process. Let us help you unlock the benefits of energy-saving grants for a sustainable and cost-effective future.
Local council support for energy grants
After understanding the general eligibility and grant process, it’s important to recognise how local councils in Norfolk play a pivotal role in facilitating access to energy efficiency improvements. Each council, from Norwich to North Norfolk, tailors its approach to address unique community needs, ensuring effective delivery of the ECO scheme. The following sections will offer insights into how these councils enhance support, making it easier for residents to benefit from available grants.
The role of local councils
Councils serve as essential local government bodies, managing a wide variety of services that directly impact everyday life. They oversee aspects such as public amenities, waste collection, and community safety, ensuring that local needs are met effectively. By managing these services, councils help maintain the infrastructure and quality of life in both urban and rural areas.
Beyond basic services, councils also support initiatives aimed at improving residents’ well-being, such as health and social care programmes. They work closely with organisations, charities, and community groups to provide a comprehensive support network. This collaboration ensures that the unique challenges faced by different communities are addressed, promoting a more sustainable and welcoming environment for all residents.
Councils of Norfolk County
Local governance in Norfolk is structured through a two-tier system, providing comprehensive services and support to residents. Both county and district councils work together to meet the varied needs of urban, suburban, and rural communities across the region.
- Norfolk County Council: Responsible for strategic services such as education, transport, and social care.
- Breckland District Council: Covers areas like Thetford and Dereham, focusing on local planning and services.
- Broadland District Council: Encompasses areas around Norwich, offering housing and environmental initiatives.
- Great Yarmouth Borough Council: Addresses coastal community needs, with a focus on housing and tourism.
- King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council: Deals with both market town and rural area services and planning.
- North Norfolk District Council: Focuses on rural and coastal communities, often dealing with off-grid housing challenges.
- Norwich City Council: Oversees services within the city, tackling urban issues like housing and environmental services.
- South Norfolk Council: Covers areas south of Norwich, offering community services and rural support.
These councils collaboratively ensure that all parts of Norfolk receive the necessary services and support, improving quality of life and addressing local challenges effectively.
Understanding LA Flex eligibility
LA Flex, short for Local Authority Flexible Eligibility, is an aspect of the ECO scheme that enables councils to broaden the range of households eligible for energy efficiency improvements. Unlike standard criteria that focus exclusively on certain benefits, LA Flex allows councils to consider additional factors like income, age, or health conditions. This local flexibility is crucial as it permits authorities to tailor the scheme to address the specific needs of their communities.
Councils use this flexibility to create their own criteria, ensuring that more households qualify for assistance even if they don’t meet traditional benefit requirements. This approach makes the scheme more inclusive and effective, providing support to those who may otherwise be overlooked. By setting these local rules, councils make it possible for households with diverse needs to gain access to the energy upgrades they require.
Energy grant activity across Norfolk councils
Energy grant activity varies significantly across Norfolk’s districts, reflecting the unique needs and characteristics of each community. In Norwich, the focus is on upgrading older terrace houses with wall and loft insulation, as these homes are common in the city and often lack proper insulation. Many residents in deprived estates have taken advantage of grants to replace outdated electric heaters with modern central heating systems, significantly reducing energy costs and improving comfort.
In coastal Great Yarmouth, upgrading properties with improved insulation and new boilers is popular, particularly among residents of older, inefficient seaside homes. This area sees a high uptake of grants due to prevalent fuel poverty issues. In the rural parts of North Norfolk, many off-grid cottages are being fitted with renewable energy solutions like solar panels and air source heat pumps, catering to households looking for sustainable alternatives to expensive oil or LPG heating. These examples demonstrate how differing regional priorities influence the uptake and types of energy efficiency improvements across councils.
Staying informed about ECO funding changes
ECO funding is distributed in rounds, meaning that opportunities to access grants are available periodically rather than continuously. With each new round, the eligibility criteria and specific terms of the scheme can evolve, reflecting changes in government policy and local priorities. This dynamic approach allows the ECO scheme to adapt and better meet the energy efficiency needs of communities over time, ensuring that support is directed to where it’s most needed.
Residents should stay informed about changes to local policies and LA Flex guidelines to remain prepared for new funding rounds. Regularly checking for updates from their local council can help them understand any shifts in eligibility criteria and take advantage of future opportunities. By staying informed, residents can ensure they are ready to access support when the next round of ECO funding becomes available.
Making homes energy efficient in Norfolk
The success of energy efficiency initiatives in Norfolk County hinges on local delivery and community-specific grant access, supported by dedicated councils. Whether you reside along the coast or in the countryside, every resident has the opportunity to make their home warmer and more efficient. With local support and tailored programmes, these improvements are firmly rooted in the unique needs of each community.
Take the next step towards a more energy-efficient home with Energy Saving Grants. Our team is ready to assist you in navigating available grants and ensuring you get the most out of the support offered. Contact us today at 0330 223 0333 or email info@energysavinggrants.org to discover how we can help you enhance your home’s energy efficiency.
Common questions about ECO and energy grants
The ECO scheme is a government initiative designed to improve energy efficiency in homes by funding upgrades like insulation and heating. It targets low-income households to help them reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. In the East Anglia county, it is delivered through local councils based on community needs.
Eligibility for the ECO scheme in the Norfolk area depends on factors such as income, benefits, and energy efficiency ratings. Local councils can also use LA Flex to extend eligibility to more households based on unique local criteria. This flexibility allows for a broader range of residents to benefit from energy-saving measures.
ECO funding in the Norfolk region supports a variety of energy efficiency upgrades. These include loft and wall insulation, boiler replacements, and the installation of renewable energy systems like solar panels. The goal is to enhance home comfort while reducing energy bills and emissions.
Yes, rural households in the eastern rural county can particularly benefit from the ECO scheme, especially those off the main gas grid. Upgrades such as solar panels and heat pumps are often valuable solutions for these areas. Local councils work to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities.
Changes to ECO funding rounds in the East England district can alter eligibility criteria and funding availability. This means residents need to stay informed about updates from their local councils to take advantage of future opportunities. Being aware helps households prepare for when funding becomes accessible.
The councils in Norfolk County that offer ECO grants are responsible for facilitating energy efficiency improvements to qualifying residents. These grants are part of the government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and tackling fuel poverty.
In Norfolk County, various councils offer boiler grants to help residents improve energy efficiency. For detailed assistance, you can contact the following councils in Norfolk County:
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.