ECO4 Funding

ECO4 funding presents a valuable opportunity for Housing Associations, Councils, and Social Housing Providers to advance energy efficiency projects, with £4 billion allocated to the scheme, which is set to end in March 2026.

Launched in 2022, ECO4 is the UK’s latest Energy Company Obligation scheme, designed to reduce fuel poverty and carbon emissions by funding energy efficiency improvements in low-income households. The program prioritises the least energy-efficient homes, aiming to lower energy bills, improve living conditions, and support net-zero goals for organisations and tenants alike.

Ofgem has certified SolShare as an innovation measure under ECO4, enabling apartment buildings to access 45% more funding. Integrating innovative solutions like SolShare into your ECO4 strategy can unlock 100% funding, particularly for multi-unit projects like flats and apartment complexes. These upgrades are essential for achieving sustainability goals and meeting future regulatory requirements.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Social Housing Providers, council housing, and housing associations with electrically heated properties and low energy efficiency (EPC rating of D, E, F, or G) can access ECO4 funding to upgrade and improve energy efficiency for tenants.

Key Considerations:

• ECO4 targets properties with EPC ratings of D or lower for substantial funding. 
• For E-G rated properties, only Innovation Measures (IMs) are available. 

• • Innovation measures (IMs): 

Ofgem has certified SolShare as an innovation measure, unlocking 45% more funding for your apartment buildings.

Accessing ECO4 funding involves several key steps:

1. Eligibility Check: Start by determining if your flats have a SAP band D or below, and are electric heated.

2. Retrofit Assessment: If eligible, a certified assessor will conduct a retrofit assessment to identify which improvements are most needed. 

3. Application Process: For social housing providers, this might involve coordinating with multiple stakeholders. Our team can handle the paperwork and application submission on your behalf.

4. Approval and Installation: After approval, qualified installers will implement the recommended energy-saving measures. 

5. Post-Installation Support: After the installation, we provide ongoing support to ensure everything is working correctly and to address any further questions or needs you might have.

At Allume UK, we offer a complete end-to-end service for ECO4 funding. Here’s how we simplify your journey:

• Initial Assessment: We’ll assess your housing portfolio.
• Application Process: We’ll get back to you on the outcomes, and advise on what can funded, and connect with a contractor.
• No Charge Installations: Fully funded by ECO4, meaning solar PV installations at no charge.
• Follow-Up: Post-installation, we ensure everything is working correctly and address any concerns.

• Expert Guidance: Our experienced team navigates the complexities of ECO4 funding for you.
• Time-Saving: We handle all aspects of the process, saving you time and hassle.
• Cost-Free Assessment: Benefit from a no-cost, no-obligation housing stock assessment.
• Certified Installers: We work with accredited installers to ensure high-quality workmanship.
• Customer Support: Enjoy continuous support from start to finish and beyond

The combination of Allume’s pinoeering SolShare technology and insulation enabled E.ON to improve the energy efficiency of 15 E-rated properties at the Belmont retirement home to a C-rating or better, as well as improving 7 D-rated properties.

The Bexhill was E.ON’s first ECO4 project using SolShare™, resulting in a reduction on resident power bills whilst increasing their energy performance certificate rating.

E.ON was able to fully fund this project as part of this ECO4 obligation. All these benefits at zero cost to the residents. Hear how the residents at Bexhill are saving up to 50% on power bills:

Q: How long does the process take? The timeline can vary, but we aim to complete the assessment and application within a few weeks, with installation following approval shortly after.

Q: Is there any cost involved? The initial assessment is free, and if you qualify for ECO4 funding, the installation costs are covered by the scheme.