Discover how ECO4 funded solar panels, air source heat pumps and insulation transformed one Welsh home from freezing winters to year-round comfort.
For many households across the UK, keeping the house warm in the winter is a real struggle, especially in rural areas without central heating. One of our customers, Vanessa in Fishguard, shared her story of how the ECO4 grant completely transformed her home, making it much much warmer, more comfortable and energy efficient.
Living Without Central Heating
Before applying for the ECO4 scheme, Vanessa had no central heating at all. “In the winter it was absolutely freezing. I used to sit with 10 layers on and even my coat indoors,” she recalled.
Her only heat source was a wood burner and plug-in electric heaters, which were incredibly expensive and inefficient. “It’s a lot of work—going to the woodshed in the horizontal rain in the winter just to keep warm. And my electricity bills were very high.”
Discovering the ECO4 Grant
Like many people, Vanessa first heard about ECO4 through social media and word of mouth. “A friend was thinking about upgrading her heating, and I thought, yes, I’m going to pursue this and go for it. I didn’t think I’d qualify at first, but when I realised I did, it was ideal.”
A commonly held misconception about ECO4 is that it only applies to individuals claiming benefits. However, individuals with a household income of £31,000 or less, or those with medical conditions that are affected by the cold ranging from conditions as common as asthma and high blood pressure, can also qualify.
The Install
Vanessa’s property received the full package of measures: internal wall insulation, room-in-roof insulation, an air source heat pump and solar panels.
She praised the installation team highly: “All the installers were really nice, very helpful and hardworking. They often worked long days, and I was very impressed with the quality of the work.”
Just as importantly, she felt well supported throughout: “Everyone was very friendly and patient explaining how the system works. When I had questions, they always got back to me quickly. I felt very supported.”
The Results: Warmth, Comfort and Affordable Heating
Although Vanessa has only had the system for a few weeks, the results are already clear. “Just amazing—to have warm radiators everywhere. It’s like luxury! I am not dreading this winter as I have in the past, because I know my cottage will be so much warmer and more comfortable than ever before.”
She also expects significant savings: “I won’t be spending so much on wood, and I’ll have hot water all the time. With solar panels and a smart meter, I’ll even be able to sell energy back to the grid.”
A Strong Recommendation
When asked if she’d recommend the ECO4 scheme and Stellar Energy, her answer was immediate: “I would definitely recommend it. I’ve been really, really happy with the whole process. I actually stopped with another company because they were disappointing—but Stellar was fantastic, and I’m so glad I went with them.”
Thanks to the ECO4 grant, this once cold rural property now has a modern heating system, improved insulation and renewable energy, all at no cost to the homeowner.
If you’re thinking about applying for ECO4 insulation, air source heat pumps or solar panels in the UK, now is the time. Get in touch today to find out if you qualify and start your journey to a warmer, more energy-efficient home.