Complete Guide to ECO4 Scheme Eligibility in 2025

If you are a UK homeowner struggling with high energy bills and inefficient heating, the ECO4 scheme could be your ticket to free or heavily subsidized energy efficiency upgrades, including boiler replacements. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the ECO4 scheme eligibility criteria and how to apply.

What is the ECO4 Scheme?

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a UK government initiative that requires large energy suppliers to fund home improvements aimed at reducing energy consumption. Running until March 2026, this scheme targets low-income households and vulnerable residents, offering upgrades such as insulation, boiler replacements, and other energy-efficient measures[3).

ECO4 Scheme Eligibility Criteria

### Receive Certain Benefits

One of the primary ways to qualify for ECO4 funding is by receiving specific benefits. If you are part of the Help To Heat Group (HTHG), you may be eligible for free or low-cost energy efficiency upgrades. Here are the 10 qualifying benefits under the HTHG:

• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Income Support
• Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit)
• Universal Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit
• Housing Benefit
• Pension Credit (Savings Credit)
• Child Benefit (subject to income caps that depend on who lives with you)

Receiving any of these benefits can make you eligible for free or heavily subsidized energy efficiency upgrades, including boiler replacements[2][3]. ### Live in Social Housing with Low Energy Efficiency

If you live in social housing, you could qualify for ECO4 funding if your property has a low energy efficiency rating. Here are the details:

• EPC Rating: Properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F, or G are eligible.
• Rent Criteria: Your rent must be below market rates.
• Eligible Measures:
  • If your property has an EPC rating of D, you are only eligible for insulation and innovation measures that meet the Minimum Insulation Requirements.
  • If your home is between EPC bands E and G, you could be eligible for a wider range of measures including insulation, first-time central heating, renewable heating (such as heat pumps and solar), district heating connections, and innovation measures[2][5].

### Income Thresholds

Households with a total annual income under £31,000 (which varies by region) may also be eligible for ECO4 grants. This criteria is particularly relevant for those who do not receive the qualifying benefits mentioned above[3].

How to Apply for the ECO4 Scheme

### Step-by-Step Process

To apply for the ECO4 scheme, follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Determine if you qualify based on the benefits you receive, your income, or the energy efficiency rating of your property.
2. Gather Documents: Prepare the necessary paperwork, including proof of benefits, income statements, and your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
3. Apply Online or Through a Provider: Submit your application either directly through the government website or through an approved ECO4 scheme provider. You may need to fill out a form and upload your documents.
4. Assessment and Approval: Once your application is submitted, a representative will assess your eligibility and the suitability of your property for the chosen energy efficiency measures.
5. Installation: If approved, the chosen energy efficiency measures will be installed by certified professionals.

Benefits of the ECO4 Scheme

### Cost Savings

The ECO4 scheme offers significant cost savings by reducing your energy bills. Here are some key benefits:

• Lower Energy Bills: Energy-efficient measures such as new boilers and insulation can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower your bills.
• No Upfront Costs: For eligible households, these upgrades are often free or heavily subsidized, meaning no upfront costs for you.

### Energy Efficiency

The scheme is designed to enhance the energy efficiency of your home:

• Improved Insulation: Loft, cavity wall, and underfloor insulation can help retain heat and reduce energy consumption.
• Efficient Heating Systems: Replacing old boilers with new, efficient ones can make a substantial difference in your energy usage.

### Government Support

The ECO4 scheme is backed by the UK government to support low-income and vulnerable households:

• Government-Backed Initiative: The scheme is mandated by the government, ensuring that large energy suppliers contribute to funding these improvements.
• Targeted Support: The scheme specifically targets households that are most in need, helping to combat fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

### Who is Eligible for the ECO4 Scheme?

Eligibility is based on receiving certain benefits, living in social housing with a low EPC rating, or meeting specific income thresholds. Check the eligibility criteria above for detailed information.

### What Measures Can I Get Through the ECO4 Scheme?

The measures you can get depend on your property’s EPC rating and your eligibility. Common measures include insulation, boiler replacements, first-time central heating, renewable heating solutions like heat pumps and solar panels, and district heating connections[2][5]. ### How Long Does the Application Process Take?

The application process can vary, but typically involves an initial assessment, approval, and then the installation of the chosen energy efficiency measures. This can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the work and the availability of installers.

### Can Tenants Apply for the ECO4 Scheme?

Yes, tenants can apply for the ECO4 scheme, but they need to obtain permission from their landlord. Both the tenant and the landlord must agree to the application and the installation of the energy efficiency measures[5].

By understanding the ECO4 scheme eligibility criteria and following the step-by-step application process, you can take advantage of this government-backed initiative to make your home more energy-efficient, reduce your energy bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future.