Energy Saving Grants Urges Every Household to Check Their Eligibility for Free Government Energy Grants This Week
UNITED KINGDOM / AGILITYPR.NEWS / November 28, 2024 / As fuel poverty becomes ever more widespread due to the recent energy price cap increase and Winter Fuel Payment cuts, Energy Saving Grants has issued a rallying call to homeowners, landlords and tenants to take five minutes this week to check their eligibility for the many free – and woefully under publicised - Government grants available to improve home energy efficiency. With well over £4 billion up for grabs, the free grants could cut energy bills and keep homes warmer this winter says the organisation.
The funding given to energy grants is intended to help combat rising energy costs and support the nation’s carbon reduction goals – but Energy Saving Grants say they are hugely underutilised due to widespread misconceptions. Many people mistakenly believe they’ll be ineligible for a grant because they aren’t in receipt of certain benefits.
With a staggering 67% increase in the aggregate fuel poverty gap in England between 2020 and 2023, Energy Saving Grants is renewing its pledge to bridge this gap by providing clear guidance on programmes such as the ECO funding scheme, Local Authority Flex scheme (LA Flex), and the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS).
The ECO funding scheme places an obligation on energy companies to improve home energy efficiency, particularly for those receiving benefits or tax credits. It offers a range of solutions, including loft insulation, wall insulation, solar panels and new boilers. They all give long-term savings and reduced carbon emissions.
Meanwhile, the LA Flex scheme offers support beyond traditional eligibility criteria. For instance, households with an annual income below £31,000 or individuals with health conditions aggravated by cold homes may qualify, even if they are not on benefits. Similarly, the GBIS targets low-income households and poorly insulated properties, helping homeowners to reduce heat loss and lower energy bills.
“Many people believe they won’t qualify for these grants, particularly if they’re not on benefits, or aren’t aware they exist,” said Andrew Williams, Funding Consultant at Energy Saving Grants. “We’re here to dispel those myths and want to encourage every home in the country to check their eligibility this week to mark Fuel Poverty Awareness Day. These are genuine, government-backed grants - not loans to repay down the line - and they can make a real difference to families struggling with rising energy costs.”
While these schemes are entirely legitimate and free for eligible participants, navigating the application process can be daunting. That’s where the organisation steps in, offering free advice and application support to ensure individuals receive the assistance they need.
“Fuel poverty is a challenge that affects thousands of households, but help is available,” Williams added. “Energy Saving Grants encourages all homeowners, private landlords, and tenants to explore their eligibility. Whether through insulation, energy-efficient heating systems, or renewable energy measures, these grants offer a way to make homes warmer, more sustainable, and more affordable to run. You may not think you're eligible, but it costs nothing to ask - and you may be pleasantly surprised!"
For free advice on eligibility and applications, visit the Energy Saving Grants website:
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