Latest news with #ECO4
South Wales Argus
06-08-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
The latest registered planning applications for Monmouthshire
Jasmine Cottage, Trellech, DM/2025/00945. This non-material amendment application proposes minor changes to an earlier approval. Specifically, it seeks to retain the use of render and natural stone for the walls, aligning with the appearance approved in the original plans. The applicant is Clare Webb. Ty Twt, Catbrook, DM/2025/00947. A householder application for a two-phase proposal. Phase 1 includes the demolition of the conservatory and rear porch, with side and infill extensions. Phase 2 adds a rear extension, all designed by Chandran Hughes Architects. Hafod Y Bryn, Llanishen, DM/2025/00986. This application seeks to discharge conditions 4–6 from a previous decision, including management plans for the construction and lighting at Hafod Y Bryn. 2 Bridge Street, Usk, DM/2025/00880. Planning permission is sought for the refurbishment of existing flats and a shop, the demolition of an outbuilding, and a new extension to create three one-bedroom units. It also includes changes to a listed boundary wall. Adrian Court Farm, Usk, DM/2025/00938. This application proposes the installation of cascaded air source heat pumps under the ECO4 scheme to enhance energy efficiency. Ty Hafod, Gwehelog, DM/2025/00950. A householder application for the construction of a pool enclosure and decking area within the property's domestic garden. Coed Y Prior Farm, Llantrisant, DM/2025/00925. An application for a certificate of lawful use or development to confirm that farm land can legally be sold separately from the existing agricultural dwelling. Woodland near Trellech Road, Tintern, DM/2025/00981. An agricultural notification for the placement of a storage container inside an existing open-fronted barn structure for agricultural use. Land North of Caldicot School, DM/2025/00970. This application seeks to discharge condition 3 (noise assessment) from planning approval DM/2023/01030, related to a development near the school. Red Brick Cottage, St Arvans, DM/2025/00966. A householder proposal to build a single vehicle garage at the property, designed by Graham Frecknall Architecture. Rosebrook, Watery Lane, Monmouth, DM/2025/00714. A discharge of condition application, including external materials and bridge design details for two plots. Ancre Hill, Monmouth, DM/2025/00868. Planning permission sought to convert existing outbuildings into a new single dwelling. 18 Arlington Close, Undy, DM/2025/00863. A householder application for a rear two-storey and single-storey extension to a residential property. Tyr Ywen, Mynyddbach, DM/2025/00975. A non-material amendment seeking to reduce the scope of a previously proposed wrap-around extension to a simpler rear single-storey flat-roof extension. 13 Monnow Street, Monmouth, DM/2025/00776. An application to address Condition 3 of prior approval, detailing the commercial extraction system installed at the site.
Scottish Sun
22-07-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
Thousands of homes at risk of mould & damp through ‘systematic failure' of government scheme – see if yours is affected
TENS of thousands of homes could be at risk of mould and damp thanks to dodgy insulation being installed through Government-backed schemes. Households were encouraged to install the measures through two Government schemes aimed at increasing energy efficiency. 1 A Government audit of the schemes found households could be at risk of mould and damp Credit: Getty But independent body Trustmark previously found "widespread cases of poor-quality solid wall insulation" installed in homes under the schemes. Now the Government has admitted there was a "systematic failure" that could put homes at risk of mould, damp and other serious issues. Miatta Fahnbulleh, the minister for energy consumers, said in a statement that early evidence suggests a "majority" of installations of solid wall insulation were not done "to the appropriate standard". An audit found examples of poor quality work, including inadequate ventilation or roof-line extensions. The audit is set to be completed later this summer with the results published in the autumn. The two schemes affected are the Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4) and the Great British Insulation Scheme. They were launched by the previous Conservative government in April 2022 and May 2023. The schemes let eligible households apply for free energy-efficiency upgrades, including solid wall insulation, through their energy supplier or local council. They were aimed at keeping homes warmer and lowering bills for households. Solid walls - meaning they have no gaps or cavities - are usually found in properties built before the 1920s. I'm a mum-of-12, I swear by £1.15 bathroom cleaner and £3.25 mould cleaner in our busy house They can be insulated by adding a layer of material to the inside or outside to trap heat. But the initial investigation by Trustmark found: Exposed insulation or poor ventilation that could lead to damp and mould A "very small number" of properties with serious health and safety concerns, such as incorrectly fitted wiring More minor issues, such as missing or incorrect paperwork. What if I'm affected? Not all homes that had this insulation fitted will be unsafe or at risk. If it's thought you've been affected then you'll be contacted automatically by energy regulator Ofgem. The Government previously said households can expect to receive a letter from Ofgem explaining how it will check if your home is impacted. If any issues are found, you will not have to pay to get it fixed - the company that originally installed it will be required to fix it for you. If the firm has gone out of business, you should be covered by a £20,000 guarantee. Ms Fahnbulleh said: "I know this news will be concerning for people who have had external or internal wall insulation fitted through either scheme we have inherited. "That is why we are taking action to put this right, forcing installers to fix any poor-quality installations as soon as possible and at their own expense. "Affected households should look out for a letter from Ofgem, which will set out steps to resolve any issues." How else can I insulate my home? There are plenty of other safe ways to help insulate your home. You could try adding a layer of mineral wool or sheep wool to your loft or in your roof. It costs around £900 to insulate a semi-detached home with 270mm of loft insulation, according to the Energy Saving Trust, but it could save you around £230 a year, meaning you would make the cost back in around three years. Avoid getting spray foam insulation installed, as this could actually damage your home and make it difficult to sell. You can also draught-proof your windows and doors yourself on the cheap to prevent heat escaping to save around £40 a year. A roll of draught insulation tape costs around £5, or you can get a professional in for around £250. Inefficient boilers can also cost you money on your energy bills.
Associated Press
16-07-2025
- General
- Associated Press
Boiler Grants for Low-Income Households: What to Know
07/15/2025, London,England // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // Many low-income households in the UK struggle to heat their homes, especially during the colder months. Energy consumption can make up the majority of the budget for many residences, and an outdated, inefficient boiler only worsens the situation. If your boiler is outdated or faulty, you can expect even higher energy costs and less-than-comfortable conditions. To help resolve this situation, the British government has introduced the ECO4 scheme. It is for the sole purpose of offering zero-cost, replacement boilers for low-income individuals through the provision of free boiler grants. But how does the free boiler grant work? Who is eligible for the grant? What documents will you need? If you are a low-income household searching for support for the replacement of your boiler, this guide will detail all you need to know. Free Boiler Grants for Low-Income Individuals A free boiler replacement under the scheme known as the ECO4. It is one form of support provided for the replacement of inefficient, outdated boilers by energy-efficient, newer boilers for those from low-income backgrounds. This is one initiative the United Kingdom has undertaken towards the eradication of fuel poverty and increased energy efficiency country-wide. The scheme is funded by the bigger energy suppliers under the terms set by the government. The replacement boiler is funded by grants, so you will not need to pay for the replacement one yourself. By replacing the old boiler with one high efficiency, houses can save hundreds of pounds on their energy bills each year. This also reduces the United Kingdom's carbon footprint by eliminating energy waste where possible. Who Can Apply for a Boiler Grant? Not everyone is qualified for the free boiler grant. This is for individuals from low-income groups and those under the benefits provided by the government. To qualify, the following criteria need to be met: Qualifying Benefits for the Boiler Grant If you, or the one you live with, receive one of the benefits from the Government, you may be eligible for the replacement of your boiler for free: If you don't qualify for benefits but your household income is low, you could still qualify. In some circumstances, the total household income and the energy efficiency level of the property are taken into account when assessing your eligibility. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Boiler Grant Applying for the grant is not complex, but you will require the appropriate documents and verification. To apply for the grant under the initiative by the ECO4, follow the steps provided here. Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility Before applying, you will need to determine whether you will be eligible for the support. Most energy suppliers and grant providers also make available online checkers where you can provide some general data about your house, your income level, and your existing boiler. Step 2: Home Survey If you pass the initial tests, one of the energy assessors will visit you for the inspection. They will: The home visit is free. And it ensures your property is suitable for replacement under the scheme. Step 3: Supply the Required Documents Once your house survey is finalised, you will require the following documents to support your application: If you rent your property from the landlord, you will also require the landlord's approval for the replacement of the boiler. Step 4: Installation Of New Boiler Once your request has been accepted, one of the installers will visit your property and replace your existing boiler with a new one. Installation is generally completed in just one day, and you can start saving right away from lower energy costs. Learn more about the Free Boiler Scheme and how you could qualify. Benefits of Having a New Boiler for Low-Income Families Replacing an old boiler with a modern, energy-efficient model offers many long-term benefits. 1. Lower Energy Consumption Modern boilers can also save you large amounts of money by being very energy efficient. Thus using less energy for the same amount of heat. This can save you around £300 to £500 yearly. 2. Improved Heating Efficiency Old boilers also fail to heat the house evenly. Thus causing cold spots and energy loss. New boilers make your house warm and cosy throughout the year. 3. Reduced Carbon Footprint Energy-efficient boilers produce less greenhouse gas. Thus playing their part in the Net Zero goal by the UK. If all the houses switch to efficient boilers, energy wastage will be reduced overall. 4. Fewer Repairs and Maintenance Costs Older boilers require frequent servicing. And this can prove very expensive over the lifespan. A new one is stronger and is under warranty, reducing the need for high-cost maintenance. 5. Increased Property Value A home fitted with an energy-efficient boiler is also easier to sell when the property is eventually required. Apply Today and Start Saving! Boiler grants provide low-income families the valuable option of upgrading from outdated, inefficient boilers to energy-efficient models. The ECO4 scheme guarantees the benefits of free replacement boilers for those in need. Thus, lessening the cost of their heat and the level of their home comfort. If you qualify, you can apply for the grant immediately. ECO Energy Services makes the process simple. And when you're accepted, you can save on your bills, heat your house, and stress less about your boiler. Original Source of the original story >> Boiler Grants for Low-Income Households: What to Know
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Prosper selects 34 contractors for $1.36bn decarbonisation framework
Specialist procurement consultancy Prosper has announced the selection of 34 companies for its new procurement framework, which specialises in decarbonisation retrofit and investment works. This framework is anticipated to create up to £1bn ($1.36bn) in construction opportunities, offering landlords an all-encompassing procurement solution that adheres to PAS 2035 standards for 'Energy Efficient Retrofit' works and includes traditional investment installation works. The chosen contractors will cover ten lots across various regions across the UK, including the North East, North West, West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England, South East, South West, Yorkshire and the Humber, London, and Wales. This list of contractors includes Bell Group, Buston & Maughan, Cardo (Wales & West), CLC Contractors, Esh Construction, LivGreen Futures, and VINCI Construction UK, among others. The Decarbonisation and Investment Installation Works framework builds on the success of Prosper's first framework launched in August 2022, which has facilitated over £225m in construction opportunities. The new framework aims to provide landlords with a compliant one-stop shop solution through appointed principal contractors. In line with UK government-backed initiatives such as the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund, and ECO4 works, the framework requires contractors to comply with PAS 2035 installer accreditation and hold Trustmark certification. The framework encompasses a variety of works, including the installation of internal and external wall insulation, ground- and air-source heat pumps, electric heating solutions, photovoltaic systems, ventilation systems, and roofing works. It also includes traditional investment works such as new kitchen and bathroom installations, window and door replacements, and solutions for dampness and mould. Both Prosper's initial decarbonisation retrofit framework and the new one will operate concurrently until August 2026, giving landlords the option to utilise either framework for their projects. Prosper CEO Rod Brasington said: 'This exciting new framework will provide even greater funding and procurement opportunities for landlords and contractors across the UK and support them to achieve their net-zero commitments. 'Following the successful implementation and delivery of our first decarbonisation retrofit framework and consultation with existing clients, this new major framework will not only create greater value by combining decarbonisation works together with cyclical investment works, it also provides efficiency in the delivery of programmes and minimises disruption for residents whilst major works are being undertaken within their homes.' Prosper procurement head Rebecca Griggs said: 'The framework call-off will be either by further competition or by direct award, the scale of the framework means that the pricing exercise to complete as part of the tendering process is extensive, however, this should enable wider and more regular use of the direct award option. "We are really excited about how this new framework is going to positively contribute towards the drive for decarbonisation of our homes across the country.' "Prosper selects 34 contractors for $1.36bn decarbonisation framework" was originally created and published by World Construction Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
South Wales Guardian
04-07-2025
- Business
- South Wales Guardian
Free home heating upgrades under government scheme
But, it's vital to find the right schemes, and use the government websites to check you qualify and that the supplier is accredited. Improving the energy efficiency of homes has become even more important since energy costs surged in 2022. "Millions of homes across Britain qualify for completely funded energy efficiency measures, with many property owners unaware they meet eligibility criteria," reveals Nina Copeland, director of sales & support at UKEM. "The Energy Company Obligation and other programmes specifically target properties with poor energy ratings to help reduce fuel poverty and carbon emissions." Boiler replacements represent one of the most valuable free upgrades, as older, inefficient boilers waste considerable amounts of gas or oil and struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures. Modern condensing boilers operate at 90% efficiency or higher, compared to older models that might run at just 60%, representing substantial savings on energy bills. There are details on the site here. "This upgrade alone can reduce heating costs by 30% or more," reveals the expert. "Qualifying households can receive completely new heating systems under schemes like ECO4." ECO4 Flex Over the coming weeks, we'll contact residents who may be eligible to access free energy efficiency measures for their homes as part of the UK Government's ECO4 Flex scheme. Find out more here: Uninsulated cavity walls allow heat to escape rapidly from homes, wasting money every time heating systems run. Properties built between 1930 and 1990 typically have uninsulated cavity walls that can be quickly filled with insulating material. Cavity wall insulation can save around £300 annually for a typical semi-detached house. Filling these cavities has become straightforward with modern techniques, taking just a few hours for most properties. Loft insulation is another readily available free upgrade. "According to the UK Parliament, about 7.9 million homes across Britain have inadequate loft insulation, letting valuable heat escape through the roof," says Nina. "Installing proper insulation to a depth of at least 270mm creates a thermal barrier that drastically cuts heating costs." The process involves laying mineral wool or similar materials across loft spaces, which traps heat that would otherwise rise and escape through the roof. Homes with this type of insulation usually see immediate improvements in warmth and comfort. We're helping thousands boost home energy efficiency in Coventry 🏡 Through our partnership with @coventrycc, residents like Margaret are getting upgrades like wall & loft insulation - cutting bills & emissions, thanks to ECO4 funding.#EONInnovation Another green upgrade that has recently become available through government schemes for qualifying households is solar panel installation. "Free solar panel systems allow homes to generate their own electricity, drastically cutting reliance on grid power. This technology wasn't previously included in government schemes but now represents one of the most valuable upgrades available," says Nina. A typical 4kW solar system can generate around a third of a household's electricity needs, with greater savings during summer months. The expert explains that properties facing south gain maximum benefit, though east and west facing roofs can also generate significant power. Homes built before 1930 typically have solid walls that lose twice as much heat as cavity walls. External insulation wraps the property in a thermal blanket, transforming its energy performance while also refreshing its appearance. This upgrade suits older properties particularly well, providing both aesthetic improvements – the finish can mimic traditional rendering or brick, maintaining the character of period homes – and energy savings. Eligibility for fully-funded improvements typically depends on household income, benefits status, and property efficiency rating. "The main qualifying factors include receiving certain benefits like Universal Credit or Pension Credit, having a household income below specific thresholds, or living in a property with a poor energy efficiency rating," says Nina. "Councils set their own criteria, often including factors like age, health conditions, or location in deprived areas. Properties must typically have Energy Performance Certificate ratings of D to G to qualify, which accounts for nearly half of UK housing stock." The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero manages several Help to Heat schemes delivering these improvements, while The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Programme represents the largest source of funding, running until March 2026. Local Authority Flexible Eligibility can extend these schemes to households that might otherwise miss out, even if they don't claim benefits, and The Great British Insulation Scheme extends eligibility to households in council tax bands A to D in England, and A to E in Scotland and Wales, providing they have suitable property types. Martin Lewis shares 'crucial need to know' energy bill rules The application process begins with an eligibility assessment, which can be conducted quickly over the phone. Property owners can apply through their energy supplier, local council, or specialist eligibility checkers who navigate the various schemes on their behalf. After qualification, a qualified surveyor visits the property to determine which measures would be most beneficial and technically feasible. Following the survey, installations are scheduled with approved contractors. The entire process typically takes between 4-12 weeks from initial contact to completed installation. All work must carry warranties and quality assurances, with installations performed to industry standards by certified professionals. "What makes these schemes particularly valuable is that eligible households receive completely free installations – there's no catch, and no repayments required," says Nina. "The combined impact of multiple energy efficiency measures can transform a cold, expensive-to-heat property into a comfortable, affordable home. "Beyond the financial benefits, these improvements significantly reduce carbon emissions, helping the UK meet its climate targets while tackling fuel poverty."
