The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) allows homeowners to apply for funding to cover insulation upgrades at their home. This initiative aims to improve energy efficiency in homes across the UK, helping to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions.

Eligibility

To qualify for free insulation through the GBIS, homeowners must meet specific criteria.
For one eligibility route, the property must be in council tax bands A to D in England, or A to E in Scotland and Wales, and have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below. Other routes are through being in receipt of certain benefits, on a low income, or with a health condition exasperated by the cold. However, eligibility does not guarantee installation, as energy suppliers or installers make the final decision.

Why Homeowners with Savings Can Apply

The scheme is designed to maximise participation to ensure a significant reduction in national energy consumption and carbon emissions. Limiting access based on income or savings would hinder these broader environmental and energy goals.

Older and poorly insulated homes contribute heavily to energy inefficiency. GBIS aims to ensure more homes meet modern energy efficiency standards, regardless of the financial standing of the occupants. Even high income households can live in energy-inefficient homes (especially older properties).

Schemes like GBIS aim to remove barriers to action. For many, even those with savings, the upfront cost of insulation improvements can deter action. By offering subsidies or discounts, the government ensures greater uptake.

The Great British Insulation Scheme isn’t solely about helping low-income households—it’s about creating systemic improvements in energy efficiency nationwide. By allowing homeowners of varying financial statuses to qualify, the government ensures that more homes contribute to reduced emissions, lower energy bills, and a greener future for the UK.

What to Expect

After applying to GBIS, an installer will contact you to schedule a property survey. During the survey, a retrofit assessor will create a floor plan of your home and take various photographs and measurements. Based on this assessment, a retrofit coordinator will design the project. They will inform you of your eligibility and, if you choose to proceed, arrange the installation.