The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme has been a key government initiative since 2013, aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing fuel poverty in UK households.
Over the years, it has evolved through multiple iterations—ECO1, ECO2, and ECO3—each refining its approach to funding, scoring, and implementation.
As of April 2022, we have the latest version: ECO4.
This scheme continues its mission of helping eligible households lower their energy bills by offering grants for various home improvements.
Who Can Benefit from the ECO4 Scheme?
The ECO4 scheme provides crucial support to homeowners and private tenants who meet specific eligibility criteria. If you receive certain government benefits, you may qualify for assistance under ECO4.
These benefits include:
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Pension Credit Savings Credit
- Child Benefit (depending on income level and number of dependents)
Not all households in need receive government benefits, which is where the Local Authority Flexible Eligibility (LA Flex) Scheme comes into play. Under this programme, councils can extend ECO4 grants to individuals who don’t receive qualifying benefits but still face energy inefficiencies.
The LA Flex Scheme
A Wider Reach for ECO4 Support
You can apply through LA Flex if you fit into these categories:
Low-Income Households
Households with an annual income of £31,000 or less before tax qualify under this route. This threshold ensures that lower-income families who may struggle with high energy bills receive financial assistance for home upgrades.
Households with Health Conditions Affected by the Cold
Certain health conditions worsen in cold environments. If you or a household member suffers from any of the following, you may qualify for ECO4 funding:
- Respiratory diseases (e.g., asthma, COPD)
- Cardiovascular diseases (e.g., heart disease, high blood pressure)
- Neurobiological diseases
- Cancer
- Limited mobility
- Autoimmune and immunological diseases
What is Available Under ECO4?
The ECO4 scheme provides various home improvements designed to make homes warmer, and more energy-efficient.
These include:
- Boiler replacements
- Radiators
- Storage heaters
- Internal wall insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Loft insulation
- Solar panels
- Air source heat pumps
These measures help reduce energy consumption and lower heating costs, making homes more sustainable in the long run.
Measures Available Under ECO4.
How to Apply for ECO4 Funding
Applying for an ECO4 grant is a straightforward process with our help. Go to our ECO4 eligibility checker to get started.
People Also Asked
What measures are included in ECO4?
ECO4 includes heating upgrades such as first time central heating, boiler swap, storage heaters, air source heat pump, solar panels, new radiators and heating controls. ECO4 also includes insulation such as internal wall, cavity wall, loft, room in roof and flat roof. Ventilation measures are also included.
What does the ECO4 grant cover?
ECO4 includes heating upgrades such as first time central heating, boiler swap, storage heaters, air source heat pump, solar panels, new radiators and heating controls. ECO4 also includes insulation such as internal wall, cavity wall, loft, room in roof and flat roof. Ventilation measures are also included.
What are the requirements for ECO4?
The property needs to have an EPC of D or below. Along with this, one of the following criteria also need to be met: household income under £31,000 per year, a person living at the property in receipt of means tested benefits, or a person living at the property suffering from a health condition exacerbated by the cold.
How do you know if you are eligible for ECO4?
Here at Consumer Rights CIC can help you determine your eligibility.
Does ECO4 cover double glazing?
No. There are no current government funded schemes which include windows. – Window Grants Under ECO4.
Has ECO4 funding stopped?
No, ECO4 funding will run until March 31, 2026.
Does ECO4 include solar panels?
Yes, free solar panels are available. However, their suitability for a property needs to be determined.
How do I qualify for ECO4 benefits?
You can qualify for ECO4 if you have a household income of less than £31,000 per year, or if somebody in your household is in receipt of means tested benefits, or if somebody in your household suffers from a health condition exacerbated by the cold.
Who is eligible for the Eco 4 scheme?
Anybody who is either a homeowner, or private tenant who meets the eligibility criteria.
What health conditions qualify for the ECO4 grant?
ECO4 Flex provides eligibility for households where a person has a severe or long-term health condition that is adversely affected by living in a cold home. The qualifying health conditions fall under four main categories:
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Respiratory diseases
- Limited mobility
- Immunosuppression
Other Support Available:
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