Introduction: Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient for FREE
Are you looking for ways to reduce energy bills and improve home comfort? The UK government’s ECO4 scheme could be your solution!
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a government-backed initiative designed to help households improve energy efficiency by offering fully funded home upgrades. From insulation to boiler replacements and heat pumps, the scheme helps lower heating costs and reduce carbon emissions.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
How the ECO4 scheme works
Which energy-saving upgrades are available
Who qualifies for ECO4 funding
How to apply for free home improvements
Let’s get started!
What Is the ECO4 Scheme?
The ECO4 scheme is the latest phase of the Energy Company Obligation programme, running from April 2022 to March 2026. Under ECO4, large energy suppliers are required to fund home energy efficiency improvements, making homes warmer, greener, and cheaper to run.
If you qualify, you could receive free energy-efficient upgrades—without spending a penny!
What Home Energy Efficiency Upgrades Are Available Under ECO4?
The ECO4 scheme covers several energy-saving improvements that can increase your home’s efficiency and reduce energy costs. Here’s what you could get:
Free Insulation Upgrades
Proper insulation is one of the best ways to improve home energy efficiency. ECO4 offers:
Loft Insulation – Reduces heat loss through the roof
Cavity Wall Insulation – Keeps warmth inside your home
Solid Wall Insulation – Perfect for older properties
Underfloor Insulation – Prevents heat from escaping through floors
Benefit: Insulation can cut heating costs by up to £500 per year!
Free Boiler Replacement
If you have an old, inefficient boiler, you could qualify for a free A-rated boiler replacement under ECO4.
Benefit: A modern boiler can reduce energy usage by 30% and keep your home warmer for less.
Free Air Source Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are a renewable, energy-efficient alternative to traditional boilers. ECO4 funding may cover:
Air Source Heat Pumps – Use outdoor air to heat your home
Ground Source Heat Pumps – Extract heat from the ground for efficient heating
Benefit: Heat pumps can cut heating bills by up to 50% compared to electric heaters.
Free Solar Panels
Some households may qualify for free solar panel installations, helping generate free electricity and reduce reliance on the National Grid.
Benefit: Solar panels can save up to £600 per year on electricity bills.
Free Smart Heating Controls
With ECO4, you may also receive free smart thermostats and heating controls, allowing you to manage your heating more efficiently.
Benefit: Smart controls optimise heating usage, reducing waste and lowering bills.
Who Qualifies for ECO4 Energy Efficiency Funding?
To be eligible for free home improvements under ECO4, you must meet certain criteria:
You must be a homeowner or private tenant (with landlord permission)
Your home must have a low EPC rating (D, E, F, or G)
You must receive at least one qualifying benefit, such as:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit (Guarantee or Savings Credit)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Child Benefit (subject to income limits)
Not receiving benefits? You may still qualify under Local Authority Flex (LA Flex) if you are on a low income or in fuel poverty.
How to Apply for ECO4 Funding
Want to increase your home’s energy efficiency for free? Follow these steps to apply for ECO4 funding:
Check Your Eligibility – Use an online eligibility checker or contact an ECO4-approved provider.
Book a Free Home Assessment – A professional will assess your home’s energy efficiency.
Get Approved for Energy Efficiency Upgrades – If eligible, you’ll receive a plan for fully funded home improvements.
Installation by Certified Professionals – Experts will install insulation, a heat pump, a boiler, or solar panels at no cost to you.
Enjoy a Warmer, Greener Home! – Start saving on energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint.
Funding is limited! Apply now to secure your ECO4 grant before it runs out!
Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for ECO4 Grants
Not Checking Your EPC Rating – Homes with higher energy efficiency (A-C) do not qualify.
Applying Through Unofficial Installers – Use only ECO4-approved companies to avoid scams.
Delaying Your Application – Funding is first-come, first-served! Apply early before grants run out.
Ignoring Additional Upgrades – You may qualify for multiple energy-saving improvements—don’t settle for just one!
Conclusion: Take Advantage of ECO4 & Boost Your Home’s Energy Efficiency!
The ECO4 scheme is a fantastic opportunity to increase your home’s energy efficiency for FREE. If you qualify, you could get:
Free insulation for a warmer home
A new, energy-efficient boiler
A fully funded air source heat pump
Solar panels to reduce electricity bills
Smart heating controls for better energy management