The HCCRO (Home Counties Central Heating Repair and Overhaul) Scheme: Affordable Warmth Obligation
The Home Counties Central Heating Repair and Overhaul (HCCRO) scheme, also known as the Affordable Warmth Obligation, provides assistance with energy-saving home improvements for eligible households. Here’s what you need to know about the scheme:
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for assistance under the HCCRO scheme, you must meet one of the following criteria:
Living in Private Housing: You reside in private housing and receive specific benefits. This includes owning your house or renting it from a private landlord.
Living in Communal Housing: Residents of communal housing are also eligible for assistance under the scheme.
Types of Assistance Available
The HCCRO scheme offers support with the cost of the following energy-saving home improvements:
Insulation Work: This includes installing cavity wall insulation or loft insulation to improve the energy efficiency of your home.
Heating System Upgrades: Assistance is provided for upgrading your heating system, such as replacing or repairing your boiler to ensure efficient heating.
Eligible Benefits
If you live in private housing and receive any of the following benefits, you may be eligible for assistance under the HCCRO scheme:
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Universal Credit
- Pension Guarantee Credit
- Pension Savings Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) based on income
- Housing Benefit
- Child Benefit (subject to income threshold)
Implementation and Funding
The scheme is implemented under the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, which mandates large and medium energy suppliers to support energy efficiency measures. Participating companies include British Gas, EDF Energy, E.ON, Scottish Power, and Octopus Energy. These suppliers have legal obligations to contribute to funding energy-saving improvements across eligible households.
Conclusion
The HCCRO (Affordable Warmth Obligation) scheme provides crucial support to households in improving their energy efficiency and reducing heating costs. By offering assistance with insulation and heating system upgrades, the scheme aims to enhance comfort and affordability for eligible households across the UK.
For detailed information on eligibility criteria, application procedures, and participating energy suppliers, please visit the Ofgem website.
This summary outlines the eligibility criteria and benefits of the HCCRO (Home Counties Central Heating Repair and Overhaul) scheme, emphasizing its role in supporting energy-saving home improvements for households in private and communal housing. It underscores the programme's objective to enhance energy efficiency, reduce heating costs, and improve living conditions through targeted financial assistance and support.