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The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a government scheme that aims to improve the energy efficiency of homes in the UK. Under the ECO4 scheme, energy companies fund energy-saving steps in qualified homes, including renewable heating systems installations.
ECO4 is the final phase of this scheme, which obligates the UK’s biggest energy companies to fund energy-saving upgrades to qualified homes.
So, if you’ve been thinking of replacing that old boiler, adding insulation, or even considering solar panels, ECO4 can be your ticket to a more energy-efficient home. The scheme provides free heating grants.
ECO4 scheme backed by UK government, is not just about making your spaces cosier; it’s your chance to reduce energy bills and give Mother Earth a little love by reducing carbon emissions.
Let’s explore how these renewable heating sources help you transform your home.
The ECO4 scheme is the latest version of the Energy Company Obligation. It aims to upgrade poor heating systems in low-income homes by funding renewable heating technologies, such as air source heat pumps, biomass boilers and solar panels, to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
To qualify for the ECO4 scheme renewable heating sources, families must meet specific standards, including having a poor heating system within a particular energy efficiency grade and receiving government benefits.
Life was drastically different before renewable energy. People heated their homes with coal and wood—a dirty, time-consuming, inefficient, and expensive way to create energy and heat. Never being able to use their open fire in windy conditions, constantly cleaning up coal dust, and driving miles to buy cheap wood were just some of the problems they experienced. Before they realised they had other choices, they had many troubles.
If you are a household considering installing renewable technologies with low carbon emissions on your property, you are likely overwhelmed by the options available under the scheme.
Since installing a new heating system doesn’t fit the ‘one size fits all’ analogy, it's essential to clearly understand your requirements and the benefits of such a system.
Here, the various features of the system and the kind of renewable heating solution you are looking for will help you make a sound decision.
So, let’s examine the top four renewable technologies perfect for your home and the environment!
These impressive renewable technologies can harness ground, air, and water energy. By converting the harnessed energy, heat pumps cater to your heating and hot water requirements throughout the year. Heat pumps perfectly harmonise underfloor heating and modern, well-insulated homes. Moreover, you can use the RHI scheme for commercial and domestic properties.
There are two types of heat pumps:
As the name suggests, air-source heat pumps use ambient air to absorb heat and produce energy to heat homes. The heat they extract is transferred directly to the central heating systems installed in your home. These heat pumps are highly energy-efficient.
Ground-source heat pump installation extracts the trapped solar energy beneath the ground's surface. It consists of underground pipes that absorb and convert the heat. This heat is then transferred to your home's radiators and central heating system. Heat pumps are available in all shapes and sizes and give fantastic efficiency results, reflected in your reduced energy bills.
Biomass boilers are one of the most energy-efficient renewable technologies you can install in your home. They use wood, energy crops, and other natural elements as fuel to generate heat.
Depending on the biomass boiler technology you install, you can use hay bales, logs, and even sawdust to produce heat in your system. However, owing to their convenience, wood pellets and chips are extremely popular with biomass installations. Given the solid nature of the fuels, you must consider the storage space you need along with their transportation.
Homeowners can receive government subsidies since biomass installation is an eligible technology under the RHI scheme. What’s more, you can completely get off LPG and oil. You can also eliminate storage radiators by switching to significantly more sustainable technology.
Over the past six years or so, solar photovoltaic technology has rapidly spread throughout the UK. The excellent government incentives linked to its installation and the dropping capital costs have led to more than 6,50,000 installations.
The solar energy-absorbing panels of this sustainable heating system may be installed rapidly and utilised to produce power on-site. What’s more, with a large fall in its price over the years, you need not pay more than £8,000 for a 16-panel system providing 4kW units of energy. The government incentives for installing this heating system have fallen dramatically, but you may still earn a return on investment of at least 10%.
Solar thermal technology has been common in the UK for many decades. These are offered in two types: panels and vacuum tubes.
Solar thermal heating is generally used to heat water, but some homeowners heat their swimming pools and thermal storage. Many houses have roughly 4 to 6 sqm added, which costs £4,000. After installation, solar thermal technology may be projected to contribute to up to 60% of a home's total hot water consumption per year.
When we compare the initial cost with the yearly fuel savings, installing solar thermal technology is tough to justify. However, with the renewable heat incentive, or the RHI program, this technology has undergone a notable rise in installation.
And there you have it!
Our top 4 renewable technologies will make you energy-efficient and green and save you big money.
Getting renewable energy has numerous benefits, both environmentally and economically. Here are some benefits of getting funds for green energy projects:
Reduced Energy Costs: Renewable energy systems like solar panels and wind machines can greatly lower energy bills over time. By producing power, you can become less dependent on standard energy sources and protect yourself from rising energy costs.
Environmental Sustainability: Renewable energy sources create clean power, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon pollution. Switching to sustainable energy helps the earth by supporting longevity.
Energy freedom: Generating your energy through green means gives energy freedom. This can be particularly helpful during power blackouts or delays in the energy grid.
The ECO4 scheme is vital in encouraging the widespread adoption of renewable energy resources. From government initiatives to private grants, numerous opportunities can help support projects in the UK. By making the most of these funding options, you can contribute to sustainability while enjoying reduced energy costs and increased independence.
Before applying for this amazing opportunity, check eligibility criteria, application processes, and deadlines. Embrace renewable energy today and take advantage of this great support!
