Citizens Advice response to government consultation on mid-scheme changes to ECO4 and GBIS

Citizens Advice response to government consultation on mid-scheme changes to ECO4 and GBIS 180 KB

Citizens Advice welcomes the opportunity to respond to the Government's consultation on mid-scheme changes to ECO4 and GBIS.

We support key proposals to allow households to receive both loft and cavity wall insulation under GBIS, and make smart thermostats eligible measures for low-income households. We also support promotion of the benefits of smart meters as part of energy efficiency schemes, while avoiding mandation. And we support the introduction of alternative technical standards for loft insulation-only projects, provided that there are robust safeguards for consumers and that all risks are considered.

Consumer engagement with schemes could also be boosted through improvements in signposting between schemes, advice provision and stronger consumer protections.

Citizens Advice also sets out our views on pay-for-performance, which has the potential to deliver better retrofits for consumers but must consider risks around data handling and the potential to exclude some households.