Advice
Getting started with retrofit work in an existing property can seem daunting for some, while others may feel confident to do things themselves, starting with doing the research and working with contractors. There is no right approach, but first steps are really important for improving home energy efficiency, reducing energy consumption and adding value to the property. There are many sources of advice and even that may seem complicated. Here are a few to be aware of:
- Changeworks: hosts EcoCosi, a retrofit advice service, for which there is a fee. See What is EcoCosi? | Changeworks.
- EALA: a not for profit Edinburgh based social enterprise that for a fee can do a “Building Passport”
- Home Energy Scotland: offers a Home Energy Check Tool and can visit homes to assess their potential to lower energy bills.
Other companies and individuals may be able to give good advice and can be found by seeking recommendations and online reviews.
Those on tight budgets may choose to invest in low energy (LED) light bulbs, loft insulation or draught excluding e.g. with a chimney balloon. It isn’t necessary to do everything at the same time, but it all adds up.
Funding
Government grants and loans exist to improve the energy efficiency of properties. It will be important, however, to check what is available for particular improvements.
Main sources of grant / loan funding
- HOME ENERGY SCOTLAND: the main source for supporting improvements for residential properties. Its funds are restricted to improvements recommended on the current Energy performance Certificate (EPC). and thus include loans for upgrading of glazing/secondary glazing. It also offers “free, impartial advice on energy saving, keeping warm at home, renewable energy, greener travel, cutting water waste and more”. This is available for all home owners in Scotland for their primary residence, in two categories:
- Clean heating systems (replacing oils/gas boiler with a heat pump): In 2024 the grant is £7,500 with an additional £7,500 interest free loan.
- Energy efficiency measures (e.g. insulation): In 2024 the offer is up to 75% of costs (e.g. insulation) to a maximum of £7,500.
- Warmer Homes Scotland: a separate programme, delivered by Warmworks, providing grant funding up to £10,000 for those older than 75yrs. or those on benefits. To check eligibility, see the online tool on the HES website.
- Private Rented Sector Landlord Loan: a scheme to help landlords to improve rental properties by providing interest-free or low interest loans for specific improvements.
For more information see: https://www.homeenergyscotland.org 0808 808 2282
- ENERGY COMPANY OBLIGATIONS (ECO4) will run till 2026: a source of funding for tenants and homeowners with an EPC of between D to G and who claim one of a list of state benefits including Child Benefit or Pension Guarantee Credit. Applications can be made through any energy supplier. Applicants do not have to be one of their customers. Contact links to the suppliers is via: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/eco-supplier-contact-details
- THE GREAT BRITISH INSULATION SCHEME: a UK government initiative for properties in council tax bands A to E with poor EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) D to G. The scheme provides free or low cost insulation for home to help reduce energy bills. Discover eligibility via: https://www.gov.uk/apply-great-british-insulation-scheme