LA Flex: Improving Energy Efficiency for Low-Income Households

What is LA Flex?

LA Flex, or Local Authority Flexible Eligibility, is a mechanism under the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme that allows local authorities to identify and refer households that may benefit from energy efficiency improvements but do not meet the standard eligibility criteria. This approach aims to target low-income households and those vulnerable to the effects of living in a cold home, helping to reduce fuel poverty and improve energy efficiency.

Compatible Schemes

LA Flex is compatible with the following schemes:

ECO4: The latest phase of the Energy Company Obligation, focusing on supporting low-income and vulnerable households through the installation of insulation and heating measures.
Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS): A scheme targeting both general and low-income households to provide insulation and heating measures.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for LA Flex, households must meet specific criteria set by their local authority. The eligibility requirements generally include:

Income Level: Households with a low income, as defined by the local authority, may qualify. This includes those with a household income of £31,000 or less.
Fuel Poverty: Households struggling to pay their energy bills or spending a significant portion of their income on energy costs may be eligible.
Health Conditions: Households with members suffering from health conditions that are exacerbated by living in a cold home, such as cardiovascular, mobility, Immunosuppression or respiratory diseases, may also qualify.

Available Measures

Under LA Flex, a range of energy efficiency measures can be installed to improve the comfort and energy performance of eligible homes. These measures include:

Insulation: Loft, cavity wall, solid wall, and underfloor insulation to reduce heat loss and improve thermal efficiency.
Heating Systems: Upgrades to more efficient heating systems, including first-time central heating, boiler replacements, and renewable heating systems.
Micro-Generation: Installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to generate renewable electricity.
Heating Controls: Installation of smart thermostats, thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), and other heating controls to optimise energy use.

By participating in LA Flex, households can benefit from improved energy efficiency, reduced energy bills, and a more comfortable living environment.

Important Information Although ECO 4 Flex Funding is a confirmed source of funding within the ECO funding scheme, not all local authorities and energy suppliers are awarding funding though this channel yet. If you think you're eligible, please get in touch with our team and they can take your details so we can let you know when funding is being awarded through the ECO 4 Flex Funding scheme.