With energy prices remaining unpredictable and the UK working towards net zero, there’s a real incentive for households to make homes warmer, greener, and cheaper to run. Several national schemes are now available to help fund improvements, but each one works differently and targets specific needs. Knowing which grant best fits your situation can save time, money, and confusion.
ECO4
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is one of the longest-running schemes designed to improve the least energy-efficient homes. Funded by energy suppliers, it focuses on properties with lower EPC ratings and on households with limited income. If you or someone in your home receives certain benefits, or if your local authority supports flexible eligibility, you may qualify.
ECO4 can fund a package of measures such as loft and wall insulation, replacement heating systems, or even renewable upgrades like air source heat pumps. It’s typically arranged through approved installers who manage the application process with your energy supplier. The main advantage is that it can address several problems in one go, creating a much more efficient home overall.
Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)
GBIS, sometimes called “ECO Plus,” is a simpler offshoot of ECO4 that focuses almost entirely on insulation. It’s a good option for households that don’t need a full heating system upgrade but still want to reduce heat loss.
Typical measures include loft, cavity wall, or solid wall insulation. While income and EPC rating still play a role in eligibility, the scheme casts a wider net, meaning more households can take part. It’s ideal if your home is reasonably efficient but still suffers from heat escaping through walls or roof spaces.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
If you’re ready to move away from a gas or oil boiler, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme could be the right choice. It offers grants towards the cost of installing an air source or ground source heat pump, or a biomass boiler in some cases.
The scheme is aimed at homeowners and small business property owners in England and Wales. The grant is claimed by your installer, who must be certified, so the process is relatively straightforward. BUS is best suited for those who already have a well-insulated property or plan to combine it with insulation upgrades to ensure the system works efficiently.
Warm Homes: Local Grant
Warm Homes is a newer initiative delivered through local authorities to support low-income households in England. It’s designed for homes with lower EPC ratings and can cover improvements such as insulation, solar panels, and heat pumps.
One of the biggest benefits of the Warm Homes scheme is that households don’t need to contribute financially—the funding covers all costs. However, availability depends on whether your local council is taking part and how much funding they’ve been allocated.
Choosing the Right Grant
The best option depends on your circumstances. If your home needs multiple improvements and you’re on a low income, ECO4 is often the most comprehensive. For insulation-only upgrades, GBIS is a quick, efficient route. If your goal is switching to renewable heating, BUS is ideal. And if you qualify for a locally run Warm Homes project, it can be a completely cost-free way to transform your property’s efficiency.
Whichever route you take, combining good insulation with modern, low-carbon heating will cut your energy bills and make your home more comfortable all year round.