Which Grant Is Right for Your Home?
You may have heard about free insulation and heating upgrades through government schemes, but now there are two main options to consider: ECO4 and GBIS. What’s the difference, who qualifies, and which is best for your home? Let’s break it down.
What Are ECO4 and GBIS?
ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation, Phase 4)
ECO4 is a government-backed scheme designed to help low-income or vulnerable households improve home energy efficiency. Running until March 2026, it targets the least efficient homes, typically with an EPC rating of D to G.
Under ECO4, you may be eligible for:
- Loft insulation.
- Cavity wall insulation.
- Solid wall insulation.
- Solar panels.
- Air source heat pumps.
- Boiler upgrades.
- First-time central heating.
The goal is to make homes warmer, cheaper to heat, and more environmentally friendly.
GBIS (Great British Insulation Scheme)
GBIS is a simpler, quicker scheme focused mainly on insulation. It’s available to a wider range of households, including many who wouldn’t qualify for ECO4.
Through GBIS, you might get:
- Loft insulation.
- Cavity wall insulation.
- Internal wall insulation.
- Occasionally, smart heating controls.
This scheme is designed to be more accessible, particularly for homes with poor insulation but without low-income restrictions.
Key Differences Between ECO4 and GBIS
- ECO4 is more comprehensive. It covers insulation, heating systems, renewables, and full retrofits, mainly for low-income or vulnerable households.
- GBIS is more targeted, focusing on insulation only. Homeowners with a low EPC rating in the correct council tax band can qualify, even if they’re not on benefits.
Both schemes aim to reduce energy use, lower bills, and are available across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Which Scheme Is Right for You?
If You Need a Full Heating Upgrade or Whole-Home Retrofit
ECO4 is the better fit. It’s designed for households on qualifying benefits or low incomes, or via local council discretionary routes (LA Flex). Homes with a low EPC rating (D to G) needing more than insulation will benefit most. Possible upgrades include:
- New central heating or boiler.
- Wall, loft, or floor insulation.
- Solar panels.
- Air source heat pumps.
- Ventilation improvements.
ECO4 focuses on long-term savings with a whole-house approach.
If You Only Need Insulation
GBIS is simpler and faster. It covers only one insulation measure and is ideal for homes that already have efficient heating systems or just need a basic upgrade like loft or cavity wall insulation.
Still Unsure?
Both schemes share similar qualifying routes through benefits or LA Flex. The main difference is the type of improvements your home needs. For help choosing the right scheme, Consumer Rights can guide you through the options.
Is It Worth Applying?
Yes. Energy efficiency improvements can make a real financial difference:
- Loft insulation can save up to £300 per year.
- Cavity wall insulation can save between £250 and £500 per year.
- Air source heat pumps or solar panels offer larger long-term savings.
See If You Qualify
Use the free eligibility checker to find out if you qualify for ECO4, GBIS, or both. It only takes a minute and could help you access significant savings on insulation, heating upgrades, and other energy improvements for your home.
People Also Ask
What is the difference between ECO4 and GBIS?
ECO4 is a government scheme targeting low-income and vulnerable households, offering comprehensive energy efficiency improvements across the entire home. In contrast, GBIS focuses on providing single insulation measures, such as loft or cavity wall insulation, to a broader range of households.
How much is an ECO4 grant worth?
ECO4 grants can range from £7,000 to £20,000+, depending on the property’s characteristics and the measures installed. These grants are non-repayable.
Who is eligible for the GBIS scheme?
Eligibility for the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) depends on factors such as your household income, the EPC rating of your home, whether you receive certain benefits, or your council tax band. Households may also qualify if someone in the home has a health condition that is worsened by a cold environment.
How does GBIS compare to other schemes?
ECO4 offers comprehensive home energy improvements, while GBIS provides targeted insulation upgrades. Both schemes aim to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions but cater to different eligibility groups.
Is GBIS worth it?
Yes, GBIS can be beneficial for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency and save on heating bills in the long run. It offers a cost-effective way to enhance your home’s insulation.
Can I sell my house after receiving an ECO4 grant?
Yes, improvements made under the ECO4 scheme generally remain with the property, potentially increasing its value and appeal to future buyers.
Do you have to pay back an ECO4 grant?
No, ECO4 grants are fully funded by the government and energy suppliers, and recipients are not required to repay them.
Cost of Living Support Available:
- Household Support Fund (England)
- Cost of Living Payments
- Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI)
- Mortgage Guarantee Scheme
- Council Tax Reduction
ECO4 Support Available:
- Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, Energy Company Obligation
- Ofgem Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Guidance: Delivery V1.1
- Ofgem Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
- UK Government, Help from your energy supplier: the Energy Company Obligation
- Which? Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
Other Support Available:
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