UK launches £1bn ECO+ scheme to slash energy bills and boost home insulation
New ECO+ plan targets hardest-hit households
The government has unveiled a fresh £1 billion ECO+ energy scheme aimed at helping thousands of UK homes cut costs and get snug this winter. This latest move is part of broader steps to achieve energy independence and ease the crunch on household energy bills.
The ECO+ fund will top up existing £6.6 billion ‘Help to Heat’ initiatives. It focuses on homes not currently receiving government help – especially those with poor energy efficiency.
Who benefits?
- 80% of funds go to properties rated EPC D or below in lower Council Tax bands.
- 20% reserved for the most vulnerable, including those on means-tested benefits and fuel-poor households.
Expect hundreds of thousands more homes to get upgraded insulation and draught-proofing, bringing down heating bills significantly.
Energy-saving tips to keep you warm
Alongside ECO+, the government is launching a £18 million info campaign packed with practical advice to cut energy use without feeling the cold. The campaign will push simple steps like:
- Lowering boiler flow temperature from 75⁰C to 60⁰C
- Turning down radiators in unused rooms
- Sealing windows and doors to stop heat escaping
Government and critics weigh in
Business and Energy Secretary Grant Shapps said:
“The government put immediate help in place to support households after energy price hikes caused by Putin’s war in Ukraine. Today’s launch is just the start to make sure British families never face this crisis again. Our new ECO+ scheme will keep money in pockets and create jobs across the UK. Plus, the public information campaign will arm people with simple ways to save energy this winter.”
But Greenpeace UK energy campaigner Georgia Whitaker slammed the move as insufficient, telling BBC News:
“Nearly seven million homes suffer fuel poverty and millions remain poorly insulated. This scheme is just a drop in the ocean compared to what’s needed to keep people warm now and in the future.”
The government’s focus on home energy efficiency comes as it prepares more measures to boost affordable, home-grown energy and safeguard the UK’s energy security in the long run.
