The ECO4 Grant Scheme is a UK government initiative designed to help low-income and vulnerable households improve their home's energy efficiency. As part of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) program, ECO4 focuses on funding energy-saving measures such as boiler replacements, insulation, and heating system upgrades. The scheme aims to reduce energy bills, alleviate fuel poverty, and contribute to the UK's carbon reduction targets.

🏠 What Is the ECO4 Scheme?

Launched on 1 April 2022, the ECO4 scheme is the fourth phase of the Energy Company Obligation program. It is set to run until 31 March 2026 citeturn0search1. The scheme mandates that larger energy suppliers fund energy efficiency improvements in domestic properties, particularly those with low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings.

ECO4 targets homes with EPC ratings of D, E, F, or G, which are considered less energy-efficient and often result in higher heating costs. The scheme provides grants to eligible households to install energy-saving measures, thereby improving comfort and reducing energy consumption citeturn0search2.

✅ Who Is Eligible for the ECO4 Grant?

Eligibility for the ECO4 grant is determined based on two main factors: household income and the property's energy efficiency. Here's a breakdown:

1. Income-Based Eligibility

Households that receive certain means-tested benefits may qualify for the ECO4 grant. These benefits include:

  • Universal Credit

  • Pension Credit

  • Income Support

  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)

  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

  • Child Tax Credit

  • Working Tax Credit

  • Housing Benefit

  • Child Benefit (subject to income thresholds)

Additionally, households with a total income below £31,000 per year may also be eligible, even if they do not receive the above benefits citeturn0search10.

2. Property Requirements

To qualify, the property must have an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G. The EPC rating assesses the energy efficiency of a property, with A being the most efficient and G the least. Homes with lower ratings are more likely to benefit from energy-saving measures citeturn0search2.

3. Health Conditions

Households where a member has a health condition that is worsened by living in a cold home may also qualify. A referral from a healthcare professional may be required to confirm eligibility under this criterion citeturn0search8.

4. Private Tenants

Private tenants can apply for the ECO4 grant, provided they have the landlord's permission to install energy-saving measures. The property must meet the EPC rating requirements, and the tenant must meet the income-based eligibility criteria citeturn0search5.

5. Social Housing Tenants

Tenants in social housing with EPC ratings of E, F, or G may be eligible for insulation measures or the installation of a first-time central heating system. However, delivery to EPC band D-rated social housing is limited to specific measures citeturn0search4.

🔧 What Improvements Are Covered?

The ECO4 scheme funds a range of energy efficiency improvements, including:

  • Boiler replacements: Upgrading to energy-efficient boilers.

  • Insulation: Loft, cavity wall, solid wall, and floor insulation.

  • Heating systems: First-time central heating installations.

  • Renewable energy: Air source heat pumps and solar panels.

  • Heating controls: Upgrades to thermostats and smart heating systems citeturn0search10.

📝 How to Apply

To apply for the ECO4 grant:

  1. Check Eligibility: Use the Simple Energy Advice website or contact your energy supplier to determine if you qualify.

  2. Contact an Accredited Installer: Reach out to an installer registered with the scheme. They will conduct a home survey to assess your property's suitability for energy-saving measures.

  3. Application Process: If eligible, the installer will assist with the application process and coordinate the installation of approved measures.

💡 Additional Support: LA Flex

If you do not meet the standard eligibility criteria, you may still qualify under the Local Authority Flexibility (LA Flex) scheme. This program allows local authorities to identify households that are at risk of fuel poverty based on factors such as income, health conditions, and property characteristics. Contact your local council to inquire about LA Flex eligibility citeturn0search4.

📞 Contact Information

For more information or to apply:

  • Visit theECO4 grant scheme website.

  • Contact your energy supplier.

  • Reach out to your local council for LA Flex inquiries.

By participating in the ECO4 scheme, eligible households can reduce their energy bills, enhance home comfort, and contribute to environmental sustainability.