The ECO4 scheme offers you free energy-saving measures to upgrade your home. If you belong to either group, you may ask yourself how to apply for the ECO4 grant in the UK. This government scheme saves you money on energy bills and cuts your carbon footprint.

In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about the ECO4 grant, from eligibility requirements to the benefits available to the application process, step-by-step. Let’s get started!

What is the ECO4 Grant?

The ECO4 Scheme (Energy Company Obligation) is a UK government programme to assist low-income households with measures to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. The programme also has a D or below Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating target and grants for various upgrades.

What Does the ECO4 Grant Cover?

• Eligible households can access grants for the following measures:
• Free boiler replacement – Get a brand-new, energy-efficient boiler.
• Loft insulation – Improve your home’s heat retention and cut energy costs.
• First-time central heating grant– Perfect for homes currently without a heating system.
• Air-source heat pump grants– An eco-friendly alternative to traditional boilers.
• Smart heating controls – Manage your home’s heating with advanced technology.

With these changes, you’ll be heating your home but saving energy and money on your utility bill.

What Are the Benefits of the ECO4 Grant?

When applying, the ECO4 grant has a whole host of benefits, namely:

• Significant cost savings – A new boiler can cut your energy bills by as much as 30%.
• Environmental impact – Reduce your carbon output and help create a cleaner world.
• Comfort – Live in a warmer, more energy-efficient environment.

Who is Eligible for the ECO4 Grant?

To apply for the ECO4 grant, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria:
Homeowner or private Tenant: You must be a homeowner or private tenant in England, Scotland, or Wales.
EPC Rating: Your property needs to have an EPC rating of D, E, F or G.
Benefits: You must be receiving qualifying benefits, such as:

• Child Tax Credits (CTC)
• Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
• Income Support (IS)
• Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
• Universal Credit (UC)
• Warm Home Discount Scheme Rebate
• Working Tax Credit (WTC)
• Housing Benefit
• Pension Credit Saving Credit

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check Your Eligibility

Start by verifying if you qualify. Use our ECO4 eligibility checker to find out if you meet the criteria. Eligibility depends on benefits status, property type, and energy performance rating.

2. Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following documents:

• Proof of income (e.g., benefit statements)
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
• Boiler details (type and installation year)
• Proof of homeownership or rental agreement

3. Submit Your Application

Complete the online application form provided by a participating energy supplier or approved installer. Ensure all details are accurate to avoid delays.

4. Home Assessment

If eligible, an energy assessor will visit your home to determine the best upgrades based on your needs.

5. Installation of Energy-Saving Measures

Once approved, a team of professionals will install the necessary upgrades, such as a new boiler or insulation. This process usually takes 3–5 working days.

Conclusion

ECO4 is an amazing free opportunity for UK households to upgrade their homes, cut their energy bills, and contribute to a more sustainable way of living — all at no cost! It could (for example) pay for a new boiler, enable insulation in your home or set up smart heating controls to make your home more energy-efficient.

FAQs

Ready to take the first step?
Check your eligibility today and start your journey to a warmer, greener home!