The allegations are that the companies were involved in a sophisticated conspiracy across the country to undermine the government energy efficiency scheme by submitting claims where little or no work was undertaken. One of the companies involved, Warmfront, was sold in 2024 and is now under new management not connected to the investigation.
It is suspected that energy companies were defrauded of at least £44 million in this way. The SFO is seeking information regarding the case.
The National Crime Agency and SFO conducted a major operation across the UK, with four people arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud, and homes searched in Cannock, Wolverhampton, Chilworth, and Southwell. Two commercial sites were also searched at Cannock and Killamarsh.
Graham McNulty, director of the Serious Fraud Office, said, "This scheme was designed to reduce carbon emissions, help households cut costs and stay warm – instead in many cases we suspect little or no work was done. We are particularly keen to hear from installers and assessors who worked on these contracts and know what really happened. Our door is open, and coming forward is the right thing to do."
Solicitor General Ellie Reeves said, "This scheme was meant to tackle fuel poverty and improve people’s homes. Instead, the Serious Fraud Office is investigating claims £44m in public money was paid to companies that allegedly did little more than submit false invoices for work they failed to carry out.
“I am sickened by those who want to profit off the back of a scheme designed to help vulnerable people, and I’m confident the SFO’s investigation into allegations of substantial fraud will deliver the answers victims and the public deserve.”
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