The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a government energy efficiency scheme in Great Britain to help reduce carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty.
What are the obligations?
Carbon Emissions Reduction Obligation
Under CERO, suppliers must promote ‘primary measures’, including roof and wall insulation and connections to district heating systems.
Home Heating Cost Reduction Obligation
Known as the Affordable Warmth Obligation, HHCRO suppliers must promote measures which improve the ability of low income and vulnerable household to heat their homes. This includes actions that result in heating savings, such as the replacement or repair of a boiler.
Who can apply
You are eligible if you receive at least one of the following benefits and satisfy the relevant income requirements, where applicable:
- Income-related employment and support allowance (ESA)
- Income-based jobseeker’s allowance (JSA)
- Income support
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Tax Credits (with some conditions)
- Universal Credit (with some conditions)
How can this benefit landlords?
Energy efficiency improvements enhance the value of your properties, gives you the opportunity to pass obligations to the energy companies and provides your tenants with better affordability which increases the security of your rents.
How can I find more information?
Ofgem has a website dedicated to ECO – https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/environmental-programmes/eco/support-improving-your-home
