Win-Win – Crofters’ Assistance for Energy Efficient Heating
7 October 2024The Croft House Grant (CHG) can help alleviate fuel poverty for some crofters providing them with warmer homes that are cheaper to heat. This grant has recently been updated to include Energy Efficiency options at a higher grant rate to help tackle the Climate Crisis. These improvements will mean lower fuel bills and a more comfortable home.
Energy efficiency improvements
Energy efficiency improvements will improve the energy performance of a property and contribute towards energy cost savings. Applicants will be required to obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for the property prior to applying.
Who can carry out an EPC?
EPCs can only be produced by EPC assessors. You can find a list of EPC assessors on the Scottish EPC Register assessor - (https://www.scottishepcregister.org.uk/assessorsearch)
You can check if your home has an existing EPC on the Scottish EPC Register (https://www.scottishepcregister.org.uk/). You can also check that an EPC is valid by searching using the EPC Report Reference Number.
What does the EPC do?
The EPC should be valid on the date of application and recorded on the Scottish EPC Register. An EPC is valid for a period of 10 years. The EPC will provide the current home Energy Efficiency Rating and the potential rating should any of the recommended measures detailed in it be implemented.
The EPC will also provide an estimate of modelled current energy costs and potential future cost savings should the recommended measures be undertaken. This cost information is based on a standardised assessment based on assumptions about the way that the dwelling is used. It provides an indication of current costs and possible savings. The applicant will be required to obtain an updated EPC on completion of the works which will also be recorded in the Scottish EPC Register.
The Scottish Government is developing reforms to EPCs, in line with recommendations from the Climate Change Committee. These include the introduction of new metrics that better reflect the energy efficiency of dwellings. This scheme and the eligible works may be subject to change following implementation of the new metrics.
Eligible work
Based on the recommendations of the EPC, applications for energy efficiency improvements may include the following:
- Under floor insulation
- Loft insulation
- Wall insulation (Cavity, Internal or External)
- Flat roof insulation
- Heating Upgrades and improvements*
- Hot Water system upgrade*
- Thermostats and Heating Controls
- Hot Water Cylinder Insulation
- Solar Thermal Heating
- Solar Photovoltaics
- Window and Door Upgrade
Eligible work should bring a property up to a minimum Band C Energy Efficiency Rating. This is in line with the Scottish Government’s long-term target for energy efficiency in Scotland for all residential properties to achieve at least equivalent to EPC C by 2033 where technically and legally feasible and cost effective. It is recognised that not all properties will be able to achieve a standard equivalent to EPC C. Buildings that fall into this category but would still benefit from improvements will be considered on a case by case basis.
All applications will be assessed by a Scottish Government RPID Buildings Officer to determine the eligibility of the proposed energy improvement measures. Applicants may be asked to provide photographs to accompany the application which will assist in the assessment process.
What quotes do I need for this grant?
New houses need only provide estimated build costs, improvements require two quotations, three where a contractor is connected to the applicant.
Janette Sutherland, SAC Consulting
Where to get more information and support
For full guidance visit:
Croft House Grant full guidance (ruralpayments.org)
Application Form (House Improvement)
Please contact the RPID Tiree office if you require more assistance on 0300 244 9999,
or email: chgs@gov.scot
Support via the FAS advice line 0300 323 0161.
Sign up to the FAS newsletter
Receive updates on news, events and publications from Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service