The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme is a UK government initiative aimed at improving the energy efficiency of homes. Now in its fourth phase, known as ECO4, the scheme continues to play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability across the country. This blog explores how ECO4 is contributing to a greener UK, supported by the latest statistical data.
Understanding the ECO4 Scheme
Launched in April 2022, ECO4 focuses on enhancing the energy efficiency of low-income and vulnerable households. The scheme mandates that medium and large energy suppliers fund the installation of energy-saving measures, such as insulation and efficient heating systems, in eligible homes. The primary objectives are to reduce carbon emissions, alleviate fuel poverty, and lower energy bills for consumers.
Progress and Achievements of ECO4
Number of Measures Installed
As of November 2023, ECO4 has facilitated the installation of approximately 319,800 energy efficiency measures. Notably, in November alone, around 32,700 measures were installed, indicating a steady acceleration in the scheme’s implementation.
Types of Measures Implemented
The measures installed under ECO4 encompass a variety of energy efficiency improvements:
- Heating Controls: Approximately 217,035 heating controls have been installed, allowing households to better manage their energy usage and reduce overall consumption.
- Boiler Upgrades: The scheme has seen the installation of 45,138 boiler-related measures, including 37,164 upgrades from non-condensing to condensing boilers and 7,911 first-time central heating systems on gas.
- Insulation: Significant strides have been made in insulating homes, with 17,394 cavity wall insulations, 30,538 solid wall insulations, 52,604 loft insulations, and 7,935 room-in-roof insulations completed.
- Renewable Energy Installations: ECO4 has supported the installation of 19,416 air source heat pumps and 21,767 solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, promoting the use of renewable energy sources in residential properties.
These measures collectively contribute to substantial energy savings and a reduction in carbon emissions.
Environmental Impact of ECO4
1) Reduction in Carbon Emissions
By improving the energy efficiency of homes, ECO4 directly contributes to lowering carbon emissions. The installation of efficient heating systems and insulation reduces the need for excessive energy consumption, thereby decreasing the carbon footprint of households. While specific carbon savings data for ECO4 is yet to be fully quantified, the previous phase, ECO3, achieved an estimated carbon saving of 31.9 million tonnes of CO2 over the lifetime of the measures installed. ECO4 aims to build on this success, potentially saving even more carbon emissions.
2) Promotion of Renewable Energy
The integration of renewable energy technologies, such as air source heat pumps and solar PV systems, under ECO4 supports the UK’s transition to cleaner energy sources. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, these installations help decrease greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable energy practices.
3) Improvement in Air Quality
As homes become more energy-efficient and shift to cleaner heating systems, local air quality can improve. Reduced reliance on fossil fuel-based heating systems, particularly in urban areas, can lead to lower levels of air pollutants, resulting in health benefits for residents.
4) Statistical Insights
- Energy Bill Savings: Households benefiting from ECO4 measures have reported significant reductions in energy bills. For instance, the installation of efficient heating systems and insulation can lead to annual savings ranging from £700 to £1,200 per household.
- Carbon Emissions Reduction: Individual households have achieved CO2 emissions reductions of approximately 2.8 to 5 tonnes per year, depending on the measures implemented.
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Improvements: Many homes have seen improvements in their EPC ratings, moving from bands E, F, or G to bands B or C after the implementation of ECO4 measures.
Success Stories
The positive impact of the ECO4 scheme is evident in numerous success stories across the UK. For example:
- The Johnson Family in Bristol: By receiving cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, and an air source heat pump, the Johnsons’ home became warmer and more energy-efficient, leading to significant reductions in their energy bills and carbon footprint.
- Mr. Singh in Leicester: Upgrading to external wall insulation, double glazing, and a new A-rated boiler transformed Mr. Singh’s home, resulting in improved comfort and lower energy costs.
These cases highlight how ECO4 is making a tangible difference in the lives of UK residents, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic savings.
Conclusion
The ECO4 scheme is playing a pivotal role in the UK’s efforts to create a greener and more sustainable future. Through the implementation of energy efficiency measures and the promotion of renewable energy sources, ECO4 is effectively reducing carbon emissions, lowering energy consumption, and improving the quality of life for many households. As the scheme progresses towards its target of installing around 800,000 measures by March 2026, its environmental benefits are set to expand, further supporting the UK’s commitment to combating climate change and fostering sustainable living practices.
