Introduction
More UK homeowners are looking for ways to increase their homes’ energy efficiency. With rising energy costs and the importance of carbon reduction targets, they want to ensure that their homes are as efficient as possible. Internal Wall Insulation is one of the best but most overlooked methods to improve energy efficiency.
The ECO4 grant is a program that helps households who qualify insulate solid walls on the inside. This reduces heat loss and lowers bills while improving comfort. The article explains how it works, what you are eligible for, and all the available benefits.
What is internal wall insulation?
Insulation of the external wall (IWI). This involves adding insulation to the interior walls, especially for properties with solid walls built prior to 1920 and without cavity walls.
Common methods:
- Insulated Stud Wall Systems
- Installing insulation boards on internal walls
- Flexible thermal linings
The plasterboard is then applied to the systems, improving thermal efficiency while maintaining aesthetics.
What is the ECO4 Scheme?
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a UK Government initiative that requires energy companies to provide funds for energy-efficient home improvements. ECO4 offers financial support to low-income households, the fuel-poor, and vulnerable families.
- Upgrades to boilers
- Heat Pump Installations
- Insulation for lofts and cavities
- Insulation of internal walls
The grants for internal wall insulation can be wholly or partly funded depending on the property and your needs.
Does anyone qualify for the Internal Wall Insulation Grant?
The grant for ECO4 wall insulation is intended to help people:
- You are receiving benefits that require a means test (e.g., Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or Income Support).
- We recommend avoiding houses with low EPC ratings, typically D, E, or F.
- Stay in properties with solid walls
- Do you own a home, or are you a private tenant?
Note: You may qualify for your local authority’s flexible eligibility criteria even if you are not receiving benefits.
How to apply for the ECO4 Grant
Step-by-Step Process:
- Verify Eligibility: Use online tools to check eligibility or contact a certified ECO4 Provider.
- Property Assessor:
- Assessors are accredited to assess your home’s energy efficiency, insulation requirements, and current state.
- Grant Approval:
- Your application will be evaluated, and grant funds will be allocated if you meet the criteria.
- Installation:
- Professionals will install your walls with minimum disruption.
- Post-Installation Review:
- The final checks will ensure that the work has been completed, is compliant and benefits your EPC score.
Example of Real Life
Case study:
Mr. Ellis and Mrs. Ellis were both retired, living in an old terraced house in Nottingham. They spent nearly PS1800 per year on their heating bills. They qualified for the grant to insulate the internal walls of their home. What were the results?
- Heat bills down by 35
- The home feels quieter and warmer
- EPC Rating Improved from E to C