Your guide to energy efficiency funding
NRLA Public Affairs Officer Mia Rotaru explores upcoming energy efficiency requirements and how landlords can get a head start. Read on to learn more about the national grants available and if you’re eligible to apply.
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, recently revealed the Government’s plan to raise the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for the private rented sector. The Government’s goal is for all rented homes to achieve at least a ‘C’ rating on the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) by 2030.
Additionally, Miatta Fahnbulleh MP, Minister for Energy Efficiency, announced that the Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure (RdSAP), will be introduced in early 2025. This new methodology, which has been developed with the EPC industry, aims to enhance the accuracy of energy assessments, and can offer more reliable energy ratings and a clearer understanding of a property’s energy efficiency.
Challenges
A consultation will be launched by the end of the year into the Government's minimum C rating plans.
While it aims to create a more efficient and sustainable housing sector, the plans also pose challenges for many landlords who may need to make significant upgrades. The NRLA is committed to supporting landlords through this transition by advocating for increased funding and resources to help the private rented sector become greener.
Reaching a ‘C’ rating can be particularly challenging for older properties, which may require extensive upgrades such as improved insulation, energy-efficient heating systems, or replacement windows and doors.
For landlords, these upgrades often involve significant financial and logistical considerations—especially when properties are occupied. Navigating available grants and incentives can also be complicated, as these vary by region and may change over time.
To help landlords begin their journey toward compliance, the NRLA has prepared a guide to available grants and funding in England and Wales.
Grants and funding
Our quick guide offers information on support options currently available, alongside details on eligibility and how to apply. We also encourage landlords to check with local authorities, as additional support may be available through regional or local programs.
Funding available to landlords includes:
Boiler Upgrade Scheme
This helps replace outdated fossil fuel heating systems with energy-efficient heat pumps or biomass boilers.
Local Authority Flex Scheme (LA Flex)
Helps households in fuel poverty improve energy efficiency, part of the ECO programme.
Energy Company Obligation (ECO 4)
Provides funding for energy-saving measures as part of a government mandate for large energy suppliers.
Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)
The Home Upgrade Grant (HUG) is a government-backed scheme aimed at helping homeowners improve the energy efficiency of their homes. The scheme particularly targets those homes that aren’t connected to the mains gas grid. The scheme is driven by the government’s Local Authority Delivery (LAD) scheme and provides a number of ways to make homes more efficient and heating more affordable.
Great British Insulation Scheme
Offers support to install cavity wall insulations and loft insulation. Your energy supplier will tell you what support you can get after assessing your home.
Nest
Nest is a scheme created by the Welsh Government aimed to improve the energy efficiency of homes and assist households in accessing benefits and managing their energy bills.
The Government is also in the process of introducing its newly announced Warm Homes: Local Grant scheme, aimed to increase the energy efficiency of low income homes.
While we wait on further specifics on the new energy efficiency standards, landlords can begin planning for potential improvements now.
To access the funding guide click here.
