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nxtgenenergyltd · 3 months
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Are you looking for a way to save money on your energy bills and make your home more comfortable and eco-friendly? 😊
If so, you might be interested in the Eco Flex scheme, a government initiative that provides funding for energy efficiency improvements in the home, such as a new central heating system, upgrades to the existing heating system, and/or insulation. 🏠
The Eco Flex scheme is available for low-income and vulnerable households who are not eligible for the standard ECO4 scheme. You can apply for the scheme through your local authority, who can refer you to an energy supplier that can install the measures for you. 💡
The Eco Flex scheme can help you reduce your carbon footprint, lower your fuel poverty risk, and improve your health and well-being. It’s a win-win situation for you and the environment! 🌍
To find out more about the Eco Flex scheme and how to apply, visit the NxtGen Energy website. They are a trusted and experienced provider of energy efficiency solutions, and they can help you with every step of the process. 🙌
Don’t miss this opportunity to make your home more energy efficient and save money on your bills. Apply for the Eco Flex scheme today and join the NxtGen Energy community! 💚
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dfysaas · 4 months
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Don't Be Cold This Winter: Get Your Free Boiler Grants Today
As winter approaches, the last thing you want is a failing boiler leaving you in the cold. However, the cost of upgrading to a more energy-efficient heating system might seem daunting. That's where Free Boiler Grants come to the rescue. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about these grants, from understanding how they work to maximizing their benefits.
Section 1: Understanding Free Boiler Grants
In a nutshell, Free Boiler Grants are government initiatives designed to assist eligible households in replacing old, inefficient boilers with newer, more energy-efficient models. The primary goal is to ensure that everyone has access to a reliable and cost-effective heating system, especially during the chilly winter months.
Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for Free Boiler Grants, certain criteria must be met. Typically, these criteria include income thresholds and specific property requirements. It's crucial to check whether you meet these qualifications before diving into the application process.
Section 2: The Benefits of Free Boiler Grants
Upgrading to a more energy-efficient boiler goes beyond just staying warm—it can positively impact your finances and the environment. Let's delve into the various benefits associated with Free Boiler Grants.
Economic Advantages: One of the primary benefits is the economic advantage of reducing your energy bills. Newer boilers are designed to be more energy-efficient, meaning they use less fuel to produce the same amount of heat. This translates to lower monthly heating expenses, providing a welcomed relief to your budget.
Environmental Impact: In addition to the economic benefits, Free Boiler Grants contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Energy-efficient boilers produce fewer carbon emissions, helping to reduce your carbon footprint. By participating in these programs, you're not only enhancing your home but also making a positive impact on the planet.
Reduced Maintenance Costs: Newer boilers often come with advanced features that require less maintenance. This translates to fewer repair costs and a more reliable heating system, ensuring you're not left shivering in the cold due to unexpected breakdowns.
Section 3: Qualifying for Free Boiler Grants
Understanding the eligibility criteria is the first step in securing a Free Boiler Grant. These criteria typically include income thresholds, which vary depending on your location and household size. Additionally, the condition of your existing boiler and the type of property you own may be considered.
Income Thresholds: Most Free Boiler Grant programs target households with lower incomes. Income thresholds are set to ensure that assistance reaches those who need it the most. It's essential to check the specific income limits applicable to your region and household size.
Property Requirements: Apart from income considerations, the type of property you own plays a role in eligibility. Some programs focus on specific types of housing, such as privately owned homes or rented accommodations. Understanding these requirements is crucial before moving forward with your application.
Section 4: The Application Process Step by Step
Now that you understand the basics and have assessed your eligibility, let's walk through the step-by-step process of applying for Free Boiler Grants.
Research Available Programs: Start by researching the available programs in your area. Government initiatives and energy companies often collaborate to provide these grants. Ensure you're familiar with the specific requirements and offerings of each program.
Check Your Eligibility: Before diving into the application, double-check your eligibility. Ensure your income falls within the specified thresholds, and your property meets the necessary criteria. Some programs may have online tools or helplines to assist you in this process.
Section 4: The Application Process Step by Step
Gather Required Documentation: Once you've confirmed your eligibility, gather the necessary documentation. Common documents may include proof of income, property ownership or tenancy agreements, and details about your existing boiler. Having these documents ready will streamline the application process and enhance your chances of approval.
Complete the Application Form: Each program will have its own application form. Take the time to carefully fill out all required information, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Be prepared to provide details about your household size, income, and any special circumstances that may impact your application.
Submit Your Application: After completing the form, submit your application through the designated channel. Some programs may allow online submissions, while others may require physical paperwork. Follow the instructions provided by the program to ensure a smooth and successful submission.
Wait for Confirmation: Once your application is submitted, it's time to be patient. The processing time varies depending on the program and demand. While waiting, use this time to explore additional energy-efficient practices for your home.
Section 5: Maximizing the Benefits of Free Boiler Grants
Congratulations! You've successfully navigated the application process and received approval for a Free Boiler Grant. Now, let's explore how you can maximize the benefits of this initiative.
Choose an Energy-Efficient Boiler: When selecting a new boiler, opt for models with high energy efficiency ratings. These boilers are designed to utilize fuel more effectively, translating to lower energy bills and a reduced environmental impact. Look for the Energy Star label or similar certifications to guide your decision.
Regular Maintenance and Servicing: While modern boilers are designed to be low-maintenance, it's essential to schedule regular servicing. This not only ensures the continued efficiency of your heating system but also prolongs its lifespan. Many Free Boiler Grant programs include information on recommended maintenance practices.
Explore Additional Energy-Saving Measures: Complement your new boiler with other energy-saving measures around your home. Simple steps, such as improving insulation, sealing drafts, and using programmable thermostats, can further enhance your overall energy efficiency.
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freeboilergrantsuk · 11 months
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smartenergyhomes · 2 years
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Over £30,000 worth of energy efficient home improvements for free!
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under the Governments ECO4 Scheme you could have over £30,000 worth of energy efficient improvements added to your home; making your house more environmentally friendly, lowering your energy bills and even raising the property value.
What is ECO4?
ECO4 is the fourth phase of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, a Government energy efficiency scheme in Great Britain that requires large energy suppliers to help reduce carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty. Under this obligation large energy suppliers support the delivery of lifetime savings by installing energy efficiency measures in homes throughout the UK. 
These measures include services like the installation of insulation, reducing the amount of heat that escapes your house and lessening the need to ramp up the radiators. Or the replacement of a gas boiler for an air source heat pump, which uses (you guessed it) air to heat your house and significantly lowers your energy bills.
You can find out more about the ECO4 scheme through the OFGEM website. They administers the scheme on behalf of the Department for Energy, Business & Industrial Strategy.
Who's Eligible?
The following allowances qualify for the ECO4 Scheme;
Pension Guarantee Credit
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Income Support
Tax Credits (Child Tax Credits and Working Tax Credits)
Housing Benefits
Pension Savings Credit
Universal Credit
But don’t worry if you don’t have the above allowances you could still qualify under the Local Authority Eligibility Flexibility Programme. This programme is designed to help homeowners who are not currently receiving any type of aid but are still struggling with their energy bills or have a low energy efficiency rating.
Find out more or apply here
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Cavity Wall Insulation: What It Is and What It Does.
Did You Know: Cavity walls can account for up to 35% of heat loss in the typical 3 bed semi-detached house. This results in your boiler working overtime to compensate for the loss – putting more stress on the boiler, throwing more CO2 into the atmosphere and costing you more in your energy bills.
Cavity walls are a type of construction method that came into existence mainly in the 1920s, replacing solid wall construction. To describe the difference between them, simply, cavity walls are two layers of bricks that are 1 brick thick. Solid wall construction is 1 layer of bricks, 2 bricks thick. Here’s a couple of images for reference:
Why Did Construction Switch To Cavity Walls?
Primarily the main issue with solid walls was the damp associated with them. As the years past and winters and summers expanded and contracted the mortar between bricks, tiny cracks formed.
These cracks let water pass through when it rained, and since directly attached to the outside wall was the inside of homes, damp patches and mould became and issue.
The Cavity Wall method was brought in to limit this – those tiny cracks still occur, though less-so because we have better materials to create the mortar. Water still can get inside the wall, but the cavity wall construction also added vent blocks which you’ll typically see at the bottom of the wall – this lets moisture escape, so it doesn’t ruin the wall or get inside your home.
Essentially, the moisture doesn’t even reach the second layer of bricks because it just drips down the first layer and then leaves the wall through the ventilating blocks at the bottom.
Do Solid Walls Need Insulating Too?
Absolutely they do, in fact they’re worse for heat exchanging than cavity walls as there’s the layer of air between the two brick layers that can very minimally help to regulate the temperature. This regulating effect is miniscule however – the heat loss will still be around the same, it just takes a couple minutes longer to escape through a cavity wall. This is why both walls types need insulating – heat exchange still occurs in both construction methods. We also insulate Solid Walls and it could be free with an ECO4 grant!
Will Cavity Wall Insulation Make My Home Warmer?
Yes and No. Insulation helps stop heat travelling from one place to the other, and stops cold travelling from one place to the other. So essentially in winter when you’ve got your heating on, it’ll keep the heat in. In summer, when it’s melting outside and your homes brickwork could fry an egg, it’ll help keep the inside of your home cooler.
How Is Cavity Wall Insulation Installed?
The insulating material is blown into the cavity by drilling small holes in the brickwork at various points around the house to ensure a full fill. The material is then blown/injected into the wall to fill up the space, trapping air and reducing heat loss via conduction and convection.
At Titan Property Services we use Bonded Bead – very spall balls that are essentially glued together to set them in place after the fill. This “glue” is also waterproof, which both protects the insulation and also reduces the chances that the damp from outside will reach the inner brickwork – limiting the chances of damp forming in your home via the cavity.
How Do I Know If I Have A Cavity Wall?
There’s a few ways to check if your home has a cavity wall construction.
The easiest way is to just pop outside and have a look at your brickwork – do you see any half sized bricks? If you do that means your wall is probably a solid wall. If you don’t and you only see bricks laid on their side, then it’s more than likely a cavity wall. You can use the images above for reference!
You could also use the date your house was constructed to tell you – if it was before the 1920’s then it’s likely solid wall. If it was after 1980 it’s likely cavity wall, if it’s between the two dates it’s probably a cavity wall however some homes were still being built using solid wall construction – refer to the brickwork on this one.
You could also measure the wall with a tape measure. Open a door or window and measure from the outside of the wall to the inside – if it’s above 30cm, it’s probably cavity. If it’s below 30cm, it’s likely solid.
Lastly you could also check the EPC for your home. EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate – it’ll tell you what wall type you have and give a good indication as to whether the wall is insulated already. Just pop your post code in the link below then click your address:
How Can I Tell If My Cavity Is Filled?
You could check the link above to see your homes EPC which will be an indication, however they’re not perfect.
Pop outside and check the brickwork again. During the installation process holes are drilled to allow the material inside – you should be able to spot several holes around the brickwork, especially below windows, if your homes had it’s cavity filled.
You can also request a borescope check – a surveyor will come out and drill a small hole in the brickwork, then use a borescope tool which is essentially a camera on a stick, to visually inspect the cavity. They’ll be able to tell you if the cavity is filled or not.
Is It Possible For Cavity Wall Insulation To Become Damp?
Because cavity wall insulation repels water, it should not get moist. Some houses, however, will not be appropriate for cavity wall insulation if they are prone to rain caused by the wind and have damp issues. Before this kind of insulation can be placed, the damp issues in the property must be resolved.
How Much Does It Cost To Insulate Cavity Walls?
The cost of insulating cavity walls varies substantially depending on the size of your property, the materials used, and the amount of time it takes. For the average 3 Bed Semi Detached we charge around £400 as a paid service, however qualifying home owners could receive cavity wall insulation for free with ECO4.
Read more about Cavity Wall Insulation and the ECO4 grant here.
Given that energy prices are increasing by a further 70+% in October, this will pay for itself in under a year when you’re saving up to 35% on your energy bills! Insulation is also guaranteed for 25 years and usually good for 40+ years, so you’re making profits repeatedly each year by saving on those bills!
You can apply for ECO4 and claim many free home energy saving measures here.
Do I Need Planning Permission to Insulate Cavity Walls?
Cavity wall insulation typically won’t need planning permission. In some circumstances it may – but only if the insulation would modify the look of your home’s exterior, or if you reside in a listed building or a conservation area, will you need to contact the planning department.
Is It Possible To Get a Grant To Insulate Your Cavity Walls?
Cavity Wall & other types of insulation for your home are available under the ECO4 government grant. If you are a homeowner in receipt of government benefits you may be eligible for free or heavily subsidised cavity wall insulation for your home. You can read more about ECO4 and apply here.
Is It Possible To Remove Cavity Wall Insulation?
Yes. It is feasible to remove the insulation from the cavity walls. If the insulation is formed of mineral fibre, a strong vacuum may be used to remove it. Other forms of insulation must first be dismantled. This is accomplished by removing some brickwork, using special technology to break down the insulation, and then sucking it out until it is entirely clean.
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stellarinsulationuk · 1 month
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Home Comfort Initiative: Central Heating Grant Program
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Find more info at: https://t.ly/RCptf
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rahsabblog · 3 months
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energygrantsuk · 1 year
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A Comprehensive Guide to Eco Grants in the UK
The UK government is committed to reducing carbon emissions and achieving its net-zero target by 2050. One of the ways it is doing this is by providing eco grants to homeowners and businesses to make energy-efficient improvements to their properties. In this post, we'll take a closer look at some of the most popular eco grants in the UK, including eco grants UK, green homes grant, air source heat pump grant, and free boiler grants.
Let's start with the eco grants UK. The UK government has allocated funds to various schemes that support the installation of energy-efficient measures such as insulation, double glazing, and heating systems. These grants are available to both homeowners and businesses and can help to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions.
The green homes grant is a new scheme introduced by the UK government in 2020. The grant provides vouchers worth up to £5,000 to homeowners to make energy-efficient improvements to their properties. The grant covers measures such as insulation, double glazing, and low-carbon heating systems, including air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps.
Speaking of which, the air source heat pump grant is another popular eco grant in the UK. It provides financial support to homeowners to install air source heat pumps, which are highly efficient and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional heating systems. Air source heat pumps absorb heat from the outside air and use it to heat your home, reducing carbon emissions and energy bills.
Last but not least, the free boiler grants scheme is available to homeowners who are on certain benefits and have an inefficient boiler. The grant provides funding for the installation of a new, energy-efficient boiler, reducing carbon emissions and energy bills.
In conclusion, eco grants in the UK provide financial support to homeowners and businesses to make energy-efficient improvements to their properties, helping to reduce carbon emissions and achieve the country's net-zero target by 2050. Some of the most popular eco grants in the UK include eco grants UK, green homes grant, air source heat pump grant, and free boiler grants. If you're looking to make energy-efficient improvements to your property, it's worth exploring these schemes to see if you're eligible for funding.
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warmfrontuk01 · 2 months
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Discover the Benefits: British Gas Free Boiler Scheme Breakdown
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In the United Kingdom, the quest for a greener and more sustainable future is gaining momentum with initiatives like the Free Boiler Scheme British Gas. This scheme is part of a broader government effort to reduce carbon emissions and transition to more energy-efficient home heating systems.
Understanding the Scheme
The British Gas Free Boiler Scheme, also known as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), is designed to provide financial assistance to homeowners looking to replace their old, inefficient boilers with newer, low-carbon alternatives. The scheme offers grants to cover a significant portion of the cost involved in installing heat pumps or biomass boilers, which are more environmentally friendly compared to traditional fossil fuel heating systems.
Eligibility and Application
Eligibility for the scheme is determined by several factors, including the type of existing heating system, the property’s insulation, and the household’s income level. Interested homeowners can check their eligibility through the British Gas website or the government’s official channels. Once deemed eligible, applicants can proceed with the application process, which involves selecting an approved installer and obtaining a quote for the installation of the new heating system.
Financial and Environmental Benefits
The financial benefits of the scheme are twofold. Firstly, the upfront cost of installing a new heating system is significantly reduced thanks to the grant. Secondly, the long-term savings on energy bills can be substantial, as modern heating systems are more efficient and consume less energy.
Environmentally, the shift to low-carbon heating systems is crucial in the fight against climate change. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, households contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, aiding the UK’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 20505.
The Bigger Picture
The British Gas Free Boiler Scheme is just one part of the UK’s comprehensive strategy to improve energy efficiency across the nation. Other initiatives include the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme, which provides free boiler replacements to eligible homeowners, and the Renewable Heat Incentive, which encourages the adoption of greener heating technologies.
Challenges and Considerations
While the Oil Boiler Grants scheme is a step in the right direction, there are challenges to consider. The initial cost, even after the grant, can still be a barrier for some households. Additionally, the transition to a new heating system may require significant changes to the property’s infrastructure.
Conclusion
The British Gas Free Boiler Scheme represents a valuable opportunity for homeowners to modernize their heating systems, save on energy costs, and contribute to a greener future. As the UK continues to push forward with its environmental goals, schemes like this play a pivotal role in ensuring that the transition to sustainable energy is accessible and affordable for all.
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eco4uk · 2 months
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What is the eco4 scheme?
The eco4 scheme is a government initiative aimed at promoting sustainable living by providing financial assistance for eco-friendly upgrades to homes and buildings. It supports initiatives such as energy-efficient appliances, renewable energy installations, and home insulation, helping individuals and communities reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy costs. You can apply here: https://ukeco4scheme.co.uk/
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nxtgenenergyltd · 8 days
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🌞 Exciting News! 🌞 Did you know that homes with solar panels can sell for more than those without? 🏡💰
Solar panels are a fantastic way to save money on your energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and increase the value of your home. Let’s dive into the benefits of solar panels and why they’re a smart choice for homeowners:
Save Money: By producing your own power through the sun, you can reduce or eliminate your electricity bills. On average, a 3-kilowatt (3kW) solar panel system can save you roughly £485 each year, depending on your location in the UK.
Earn Money: If you generate more power than you use, you can sell it back to the National Grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). This scheme pays you for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity you export, but only if your solar PV system has been installed by an MCS Certified installer like NXTGEN Energy! 💡
Shrink Your Carbon Footprint: Solar panels generate clean energy and help reduce your greenhouse gas emissions. By switching to solar energy, you can reduce your household’s carbon emissions by up to 1.2 tonnes per year. 🌿
Increase Home Value: Homes with solar panels sell for 4.1% more than comparable homes without solar, according to Zillow. Plus, they improve your property’s attractiveness and show that your home is energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. 🌟
Low Maintenance: Solar panels are durable and require little upkeep. With a manufacturer warranty of 25 to 30 years, they can last even longer with proper care and cleaning. 🛠️
Financial Support Available: You may be eligible for grants, funding, or loans to help cover the installation costs. For example, the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) phase 4 scheme offers funding through your energy supplier for solar panels and other energy-efficient measures. At NXTGEN Energy, we also offer flexible finance options, including a 0% fixed rate over 12 months! Learn more here: Flexible Finance Options Available with NXTGEN Energy in partnership with Ideal4Finance.
So, if you’re ready to invest in solar panels and convert to renewable energy, reach out to our expert team. Let’s make your home greener and more valuable! 🌎🏠
Read More: Homes with solar panels can sell for more than those without
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boilerscheme · 3 months
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Free Boiler Scheme - ECO4 Grants UK
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Free Boiler Scheme is a leading UK-based company offering government-funded ECO4 Grants UK and Boiler Upgrade schemes for boiler grants, and free insulation grants UK to eligible households. We specialize in enhancing the energy efficiency of homes in England, Scotland, and Wales. Connecting you with the government’s Licensed and registered Installer for energy-saving measures, we have assisted thousands of homes in lowering their energy expenses and carbon footprints. Access to a free boiler replacement grant and a first-time central heating grant UK is FREE.
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heatzen · 4 months
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British Government announced a Free Boiler ECO4 Scheme for home owners who receiving benefits from the Government. Or your boiler is less then 15 years old than you are eligible for this free scheme.
Visit our website Heatzen.co.uk and check your eligibility today.
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tahaazher27 · 5 months
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The ECO4 Scheme: Transforming Lives and Landscapes in the UK
ECO4 scheme isn’t just about saving energy, it’s about transforming lives. It’s a powerful tool poised to revolutionize the lives of millions and reshape the country’s energy landscape. Therefore, running from 2022 to 2026, this ambitious initiative aims has improve energy efficiency in British homes, reducing high bills, boosting comfort, and reducing emissions saves a lot of time and money. In…
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The Energy Crisis: Why UK Bills Are Rising And The Price Cap Explained
What Caused the Price Increase For Energy Bills?
The price increase is directly related to the Price Cap increase. The Price Cap is the maximum price that energy suppliers in England, Wales and Scotland can charge the households they serve.
It also sets the daily maximum standing charge. This charge is a cost pair for a home to be part of and connected to the national grid. The standing charge cap is designed to stop supplies from passing on the wholesale hikes directly on to the consumer.
The energy regulator, Ofgem, brought the price cap into existence in January of 2019 and reviews the price cap every 6 months.
The price cap runs from April until October, and October until April again. This gives us a “Summer Period” and a “Winter Period”. This means that April’s Price Cap Increase stands until October, and it’s not good news for afterwards.
The Price Cap increase for April was accurately predicted by the Investment Firm Cornwall Insight, and they’ve said it will increase again by another £629 for the Winder Period, coming in October.
This means that families suffering already will be really struggling through the winter months, when gas usage goes up as we start to fire up the central heating again.
Craig Lowrey, principal consultant at Cornwall Insight, said this:
“While the Government’s £350 worth of support will provide some respite to consumers this time around – albeit not enough – with the cap almost guaranteed to rise again, the Government will need to look at expanding the scale and scope of this support after October at the very least.” Ofgem have also released a statement which said “The energy market has faced a huge challenge due to the unprecedented increase in global gas prices, a once in a 30-year event, and Ofgem’s role as energy regulator is to ensure that, under the price cap, energy companies can only charge a fair price based on the true cost of supplying electricity and gas.” “Ofgem is working to stabilise the market and over the longer term to diversify our sources of energy which will help protect customers from similar price shocks in the future.” “It is too soon to predict the level of the price cap from October, but any customer worried about bills should contact their supplier to access available support.”
Why Has The Price Cap Increased?
We’ve heard all sorts of information and theories about why the price has increased. The truth is it’s a combination of everything that’s been going wrong with the world lately.
Ultimately the Price Cap has increased because the wholesale price of natural gas has increased and companies would have immediately went bust had the increase not happened – despite the price cap increase, many energy suppliers did go bust.
The wholesale price of gas increase started with China and Asia and their increase in demand coming out of lockdowns. China in particular has been given bad press over its huge usage in coal. In response to that, they’ve opted to try and lower their carbon footprint by switching from coal to gas. They were using a substantial amount of coal, and so this has hugely increased the demand for Natural Gas.
After this, Europe experienced a very cold winter which meant that stored gas supplies were used which in turn also pushed up prices.
Over summer we had a lack of wind which then hit our largest renewable energy source – wind farms. This then increased demand for gas so that we could keep up with electricity demands via power stations.
Lastly, Russia.
Most of Europe’s gas supply came from Russia, and while the UK’s supply largely didn’t, everywhere has placed sanctions on Russia because of the invasion of Ukraine – so all of the other countries now have to find gas from somewhere else. It’s a more competitive market with a smaller pot of gas up for grabs.
Gas prices were expected to stabilise for 2023, however with the Russian invasion that’s now all up in the air. Once we’re all used to the new markets and buyers know that it’s not the end of the world and that other sellers are there, then the market should stabilise as there’s no reason to try and outbid everyone else to make sure we can keep the lights on.
The Seller’s market is now smaller because we don’t have Russia’s huge gas supply to take from, and ultimately the rates are set by the cheapest a seller is looking to sell for. With less competition, sellers can keep their prices high, because the rest of the world needs to buy gas in order to stay functioning.
Will the sellers reduce their prices because the rest of the world is struggling? We’re not sure, but those that have a chance to profit usually want to profit. There is a grain of good in there though – sellers can only sell for a price a buyer is willing to pay. Ultimately if the world linked arms and said we’re not paying this much for gas, the price would have to come down.
However, the countries of the world are not best friends and China has the capability of bidding higher than many other countries.
Why Are “Green Energy” Providers Prices Increasing?
Over 9 Million households are on Green Energy Tariffs, which supposedly comes from renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines, yet all are seeing their bills rocket. This is leaving many question why they’re subject to the same price increases as homes running on fossil fuels, which is rightfully so.
The way we receive energy into our homes is kind of like a giant smoothie, with coal, gas, solar, wind farms and every other source of power blended together. The national grid is the smoothie. So, even on a green tariff, the electricity you use to power your fridge could have come from digging up coal in Russia, from fracking operations that decimate the countryside, or from solar panels.
Unless you’re completely off grid, in that you don’t use power from the national grid, you have no way of specifying that you only want power from renewables.
So what’s a Green Tariff?
Energy companies have worked out several workarounds to off “Green Tariffs”. The first is to invest directly into renewable energy projects such as setting up wind farms and solar farms. This is what most people imagine when they think of a Green Energy Supplier. Some Green Energy Suppliers do this, most do not.
The second option is by signing contracts with existing renewable energy projects, to buy the power they create from them to send to the grid. This isn’t the most popular method either.
The most common way an energy provider becomes “Green” is by purchasing certificates in recognition that somewhere, at some point, some renewable energy has been produced in the UK.
When doing research we discovered that Green Energy suppliers actually have the highest rates – Comparison Website Uswitch says 14 of the 23 tariffs available currently are Green, but the 5 most expensive of those are also green energy.
So even if you’re on a Green Tariff, you’re still consuming just as much natural gas as everyone else is, it’s just that your company is likely purchasing certificates to show that green energy was produced somewhere which got sent to the power grid. Also those companies taking the second option of buying the power from generators also have to deal with those farms increasing their purchase costs, which they typically do alongside gas prices.
What Can I Do To Lower My Bills?
Unfortunately we’re all at the mercy of gas prices. The cost you pay for fuel will stay how it is until it rises again in October, then again in January. The only thing we can all do, is use less energy. Overall, hands down, the best way to reduce how much energy you use while also staying comfortable, is to make sure your home is insulated. 60% of the heat you generate is lost through uninsulated walls (35%) and through an uninsulated roof (25%).
This is where where Titan Energy Solutions comes in – the energy crisis isn’t going away soon, so by insulating your home as soon as you can, you’ll be saving much more on your energy bills.
The UK has released ECO4, the latest iteration of the Energy Company Obligation. The leading energy providers in the UK have to contribute by law towards a £1billion pot of funding per year which homeowners can access in order to improve how energy efficient their homes are.
Titan Energy Solutions has partnered with some of these energy companies so that we can provide these energy saving measures to residents and then we get paid after completing the job.
The energy saving measures you can claim are:
• Cavity wall insulation — if your home is constructed with Cavity walls, we can insulate the space between bricks to keep the warmth inside your home.
• Internal Wall Insulation — like cavity wall insulation, we also insulate solid walls to help maintain the heat in your home. 35% of heat you generate is lost through uninsulated, or badly insulated walls which means you can make substantial savings on heating bills.
• Loft Insulation — 25% of your heat is lost through the roof — we can insulate between your ceiling joists in the loft space which then bounces the heat back down into your home.
• Flat Roof Insulation — Even when you've got no loft space, we can insulate! Flat roofs are commonly found on garages and extensions, and due to the cost, most aren't insulated when constructed as it means the builders can offer a lower quote and still increase their profits. We insulate on top of the roof, so you don't lose any space inside the room below.
• Central Heating (First Time Central Heating) — FTCH is where we help properties currently using Electric storage heaters by installing an entire central heating system. Combi boiler, Radiators and all the pipework to go with it is available under the grant if your home is "on gas" but doesn't have a wet central heating system in place. If it's "off gas" then we have other options...
• High Heat Retention Heaters — these electric heaters share the same DNA as electric storage heaters but are designed to get warm and stay warm, giving out heat even after you've turned them off. This means you could even heat them at night, when electricity is cheaper on a dual tariff, and then open them up to heat rooms during the next day.
• Air Source Heat Pumps — These are perfect for those people wanting central heating while having no gas supply. Electrically powered, they work essentially the same way as a boiler — with pipes and radiators pushing warm water through your home. They also heat a storage tank full of water, so you get hot running water for baths and washing the dishes.
• Solar Panels — If you're using electric heating, such as Storage Heaters or an Air Source Heat Pump, you can also apply for solar panels from the grant to help lower your bills even more. They essentially make operating the heating during the day either free or very nearly free, depending on how high you're cranking the heat. There's also the benefit of sending power to the grid if you don't use it, for which you can actually get paid for!
Titan Energy Solutions facilitates the ECO4 grant. We'll do all the paperwork, the surveys, the submissions and we'll install the measures with our expert fitters and engineers. To start your ECO4 claim, head over to our website and fill out our application form!
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stellarinsulationuk · 1 month
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Understanding the Government Boiler Scheme: A Lifeline for Energy Efficiency
In an era of heightened environmental consciousness and escalating energy costs, the quest for energy efficiency has become paramount. One of the key battlegrounds in this endeavor is heating systems, particularly boilers, which are notorious energy guzzlers. Recognizing this, governments worldwide have initiated various schemes to incentivize the adoption of energy-efficient boilers among households. In the United Kingdom, the Government Boiler Scheme stands out as a beacon of hope for those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and slash their energy bills.
The Government Boiler Scheme often referred to as the Boiler Replacement Grant or Boiler Grant, aims to assist low-income households in replacing their old, inefficient boilers with modern, energy-efficient ones. Launched as part of broader energy efficiency initiatives, this scheme targets households that struggle to meet the costs of heating their homes adequately. By providing financial assistance for boiler replacements, the government endeavors to alleviate fuel poverty while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions.
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At the heart of the Government Boiler Scheme is the drive to promote the use of condensing boilers. Unlike traditional boilers, which waste a significant portion of heat through flue gases, condensing boilers reclaim this heat, making them far more efficient. By upgrading to condensing boilers, households can potentially reduce their heating bills by hundreds of pounds annually while significantly lowering their carbon footprint.
Eligibility for the scheme is typically based on various criteria, including income level, the age of the existing boiler, and the energy efficiency rating of the property. Low-income households, particularly those receiving certain benefits, are often prioritized for assistance. Additionally, the scheme may extend to homeowners, private tenants, and landlords, ensuring a broad reach across different segments of society.
The process of availing the scheme usually involves an assessment of the existing boiler and property to determine eligibility. Once approved, households may receive partial or full funding for the boiler replacement, covering both the cost of the boiler itself and installation. In some cases, additional measures such as insulation or heating controls may also be included to maximize energy efficiency.
Beyond the immediate financial benefits, the Government Boiler Scheme contributes to broader societal goals, including tackling climate change and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. By incentivizing the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, the scheme aligns with national and international commitments to decarbonize the economy and transition to sustainable energy sources.
However, like any government program, the free boiler Scheme is not without its challenges. Limited funding, bureaucratic hurdles, and logistical complexities can impede its effectiveness and reach. Moreover, as technology advances and energy efficiency standards evolve, ensuring that the scheme remains relevant and impactful requires ongoing adaptation and refinement.
In conclusion, the Government Boiler Scheme represents a vital tool in the fight against fuel poverty and climate change. By providing financial support for the adoption of energy-efficient boilers, it offers tangible benefits to households while advancing broader environmental and societal objectives. As governments continue to prioritize energy efficiency and sustainability, schemes like this serve as crucial pillars of a greener, more resilient future.
Source & Reference: https://sites.google.com/view/stellarinsulation/understanding-the-government-boiler-scheme-a-lifeline-for-energy-efficienc
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