The ECO4 scheme is the latest UK government programme designed to help households reduce energy bills, improve home comfort, and cut carbon emissions. Running alongside the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS), ECO4 provides grants and funding for energy efficiency upgrades such as loft insulation, wall insulation, and new heating systems.
Why ECO4 is Important for Homeowners and Tenants?
Energy costs have risen sharply in recent years, leaving many households struggling to heat their homes. The ECO4 scheme is a government-backed solution aimed at:
Reducing fuel poverty for low-income households
Improving home energy efficiency to meet UK net-zero targets
Helping tenants and homeowners access free or low-cost insulation and heating upgrades
What Measures Are Covered by ECO4?
ECO4 covers a wide range of energy efficiency improvements, including:
Loft insulation and cavity wall insulation to prevent heat loss
Boiler replacements for older, inefficient heating systems
Heat pumps and renewable energy solutions in off-gas-grid homes
Draft-proofing and minor efficiency measures to reduce energy waste
These improvements are designed to help you lower energy bills, increase comfort, and raise your property’s EPC rating, which can also add value if you plan to sell your home.
Who Can Apply for ECO4 Grants?
Eligibility depends on several factors:
Private homeowners: Must meet income or benefits criteria and have homes with lower EPC ratings (typically D, E, F, or G)
Tenants: Can apply if landlords agree to the work
Off-gas-grid households: Priority is often given to homes not connected to the main gas network
Local councils may offer additional guidance or flexible eligibility criteria, increasing the number of households that can benefit.
How Much Can You Save with ECO4?
The amount you can save depends on the type of measures installed:
Loft or cavity wall insulation can save up to £200–£300 per year
New boilers or heat pumps can save £300–£500 per year, depending on usage and fuel type
Combined measures can significantly reduce your energy bills, especially during winter
Investing in ECO4 upgrades not only saves money but also reduces your home’s carbon footprint, contributing to the UK’s environmental targets.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for ECO4
Check your eligibility
Approval & scheduling
Installation and completion
After installation, your home will be warmer, more energy-efficient, and potentially eligible for further grants under GBIS.
ECO4 and GBIS – Working Together
The ECO4 scheme often overlaps with GBIS (Great British Insulation Scheme). While ECO4 focuses on households with lower incomes or EPC ratings, GBIS can provide wider coverage, helping even more homes access insulation and heating upgrades. By combining both schemes, residents can maximise savings and improvements.
