The ECO4 Scheme is one of the UK’s most important government initiatives for improving home energy efficiency. Designed to tackle fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions, it provides funding for heating and insulation upgrades. But how do you know if you qualify?
Step 1: Check Your Benefits Status
The primary route to qualification is through qualifying benefits. If you or someone in your household receives one of the following, you are likely eligible:
- Income-based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support (IS)
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Working Tax Credit (WTC)
- Child Tax Credits (CTC)
- Universal Credit (UC)
- Housing Benefit
- Pension Credit Savings Credit
Step 2: Check Your Home’s Energy Efficiency (EPC)
ECO4 focuses on improving the least efficient homes. Your property typically needs an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F, or G. If your home is already rated A, B, or C, you likely won’t qualify for the main measures, as your home is already considered efficient.
Step 3: Identify Needed Improvements
The scheme takes a "whole house approach." This means it doesn’t just replace a boiler; it looks at insulation first. Measures often include:
- Insulation: Loft, Cavity Wall, Solid Wall, or Room-in-Roof insulation.
- Heating: Upgrading to a new condensing boiler, heat pump, or installing first-time central heating.
- Controls: Smart thermostats and TRVs.
Step 4: Apply Through an Approved Installer
You cannot apply directly to the government; you must go through an approved installer like Prima Energy Solutions. We handle the survey, funding application, and installation.
Ready to start? Use our eligibility calculator today to see if you can claim thousands of pounds in free home upgrades.
