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Energy Company Obligation (ECO) 4 Funding (Home Heating Cost Reduction HHCRO)

The Council has become aware that some residents are receiving marketing letters from companies offering funding for energy measures.  Although in most instances the companies that are contacting you may be genuine and reputable, unfortunately at times we do receive reports of scams and fraudulent activity so for residents to make an informed choice here is some information on the scheme along with some advice for residents who wish to participate in this scheme.

ECO 4 is a government energy efficiency scheme across the UK designed to tackle fuel poverty and help reduce carbon emissions.  The Scheme is funded by obligated Energy Suppliers via Installers or their Agents and is currently available until March 2026. 

Energy Company Obligation (ECO) | Ofgem

  • A range of energy measures is available under the scheme and are dependent upon the energy performance of your home and what measures are technical suitable. The installation company will be able to advise you further of this once a home energy assessment has been undertaken
  • Levels of funding varies and can range from fully funded to partial funded measures that require a customer contribution.  Households needing customer contributions are advised to ‘shop around’ to find the best deal at the time

RCTCBC Advice

Before agreeing to any works take your time and make your own enquiries, don’t be pressurised into making a decision.  If you have been contacted by a company or are looking for a company in your area, we recommend you firstly check their accreditation status online at

Find trusted tradespeople with the only Government Endorsed Quality Scheme • TrustMark

If you decide to participate in ECO 4 scheme and have energy measures installed at your home please ensure that the company provides you with any warranties or post care information following the completion the works as well as keeping a record of company details and any contractual documentation.  The selection of contractor is based on your own customer choice so you may also wish to carry out other checks on the company as you would if purchasing other types of home improvements. 

If you feel a company is not genuine then please report any canvassing activity to Citizens Advice Consumer Advice Services telephone 0808 223 1133 or online  Citizens Advice.  This service is also able to provide further information on your consumer rights.

Welsh Government’s NEST Scheme also offer a range of free, impartial advice and, if you are eligible, a package of free home energy efficiency improvements such as a new boiler, central heating or insulation. They can be contacted on either 0808 808 2244 (Mon-Fri 9am-6pm) or you can request a call back via their website www.nest.gov.wales

Some residents may find that they are eligible for more than one energy scheme (such as Nest and ECO 4) and homeowners are advised to consider all options available to them before agreeing to proceed, bearing in mind that once you receive assistance from one scheme you may no longer be eligible for measures from a different scheme. Energy measures and levels of funding vary between different schemes.

The Council’s Heat & Save team provides information and assistance on a range of energy efficiency grants and support available for further assistance please contact 01443 281136 heatandsave@rctcbc.gov.uk

Posted on 12/10/2023