As energy prices slowly drop and environmental awareness grows, homeowners across the UK are increasingly looking for ways to improve their home’s energy efficiency. Solid wall insulation is one of the most effective measures you can take to reduce energy consumption and lower heating bills. However, the cost of installing solid wall insulation can be quite high. Fortunately, several grants for solid wall insulation and funding options are available to help mitigate these expenses. This blog explores how to access these grants and what steps you need to take.

What is Solid Wall Insulation?

Before diving into the grants, it’s important to understand what solid wall insulation involves. Unlike cavity wall insulation, which fills the gap between two layers of a wall, solid wall insulation requires adding a layer of insulating material either to the inside or the outside of the walls. This can significantly reduce heat loss, making your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

Why consider Solid Wall Insulation?

• Energy Efficiency: Proper insulation can reduce the energy you use to heat your home, directly translating to lower energy bills.
• Environmental Impact: Reducing energy consumption also means lower carbon emissions, which is crucial for environmental sustainability.
• Property Value: Improvements such as insulation can increase your property’s market value and its appeal to potential buyers.

Finding grants and funding for Solid Wall Insulation

Navigating the landscape of grants for home insulation can seem daunting. Still, several key programmes are specifically aimed at helping homeowners improve their energy efficiency through measures like solid wall insulation. Schemes include the newly introduced Great British Insulation Scheme and existing initiatives like the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) and the Home Upgrade Grant.

1. Energy Company Obligation (ECO and ECO4): The ECO scheme has been a cornerstone in the UK government’s strategy to increase energy efficiency in homes, particularly low-income families. In 2022, ECO was updated to ECO4, which will run until March 2026. This iteration focuses more intensely on the poorest households and includes measures that can significantly improve home energy efficiency. Under ECO4, eligibility is primarily based on household income and whether the household receives certain benefits, such as Universal Credit or Pension Guarantee Credit. Importantly, ECO4 aims to cover up to 100% of the insulation cost.
2. Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS): The Great British Insulation Scheme is a newer initiative to fund home insulation projects, including solid wall insulation. This scheme is part of a broader effort to improve home energy efficiency across the UK. The scheme typically targets low-income households and the broader public to subsidise substantial insulation costs.
3. Home Upgrade Grant: Announced as part of a broader strategy to cut emissions and reduce energy use, the Home Upgrade Grant is designed to help lower-income households in England improve their home’s energy efficiency. This grant focuses on homes that are off the gas grid and could benefit substantially from upgrades like solid wall insulation. Funding from this grant can be substantial, often covering most, if not all, of the costs associated with installing solid wall insulation, thereby providing significant financial relief to eligible households.

How to access these grants

• Research and Eligibility: Start by visiting official resources like the Simple Energy Advice website, the Energy Saving Trust, or direct government portals to learn about the latest available grants and your eligibility.
• Documentation and Assessment: You must provide proof of income, benefits, and your home’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Some schemes may require an initial energy audit to assess what work is needed and how much funding you can receive.
• Choosing Qualified Installers: It’s critical to choose installers certified under schemes like TrustMark or registered with the National Insulation Association. This ensures that work meets the standards required to qualify for grants.
• Application Process: Apply through the designated channels for each grant. This might involve online applications, direct contact with energy companies under the ECO scheme, or through local councils for localised grants.

How to apply for insulation grants

• Check Eligibility: First, check if you are eligible for any grants. Websites like Simple Energy Advice (England), Home Energy Scotland, or the Energy Saving Trust can provide guidance and eligibility criteria.
• Gather Documentation: You’ll likely need proof of ownership, income, and possibly an energy performance certificate (EPC) for your home.
• Find a Trustworthy Installer: Many grants require that the work be done by a certified installer. Ensure the installer is registered with relevant bodies such as TrustMark or the National Insulation Association.
• Apply: Once you’ve found a suitable grant and installer, apply for the grant. This might involve filling out forms and providing the necessary documentation. Assistance from the grant provider or a professional advisor can be invaluable here.