Unlocking Energy Efficiency: How the ECO4 Scheme Can Help You

Mariel • December 4, 2024

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Scheme is a government initiative designed to promote energy efficiency in UK homes. By supporting households with funding for energy-saving improvements, the scheme plays a vital role in reducing energy bills and cutting carbon emissions. This blog explains who can benefit, what the scheme funds, and how to apply, helping you make the most of this opportunity to upgrade your home’s energy efficiency.

Who Can Benefit from the ECO4 Scheme?

The ECO4 Scheme is targeted at households most in need of energy efficiency improvements. Here’s what you need to know about eligibility:

Qualifying Households: Low-income families and individuals who receive specific government benefits are often eligible. These may include families with children, pensioners, or people with long-term health conditions. To ensure that the scheme is helping those who need it the most, the government has set criteria for household income levels.

Eligible Properties: Homes with poor energy performance or high heating costs are the main focus. This includes homes with outdated insulation, inefficient heating systems, or properties that have not yet adopted renewable energy solutions. If your home has high energy usage, it could be a good candidate for the scheme.

Checking Your Eligibility: Use an online eligibility checker or contact your energy provider for guidance on whether your household qualifies. Many energy providers also have dedicated teams to help guide you through the process, so don't hesitate to reach out and find out if you're eligible.

What is the ECO4 Scheme?

The ECO4 Scheme aims to enhance energy efficiency in UK homes through targeted funding. Its primary objectives include:

  • Improving the thermal performance of properties to reduce heating bills.
  • Supporting the UK’s commitment to lowering carbon emissions.
  • Helping households access modern, energy-efficient technology like insulation and renewable energy solutions.

The government is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and schemes like ECO4 play a crucial role in achieving that goal. The ECO4 Scheme is designed to reduce the carbon footprint of homes while saving money for families who struggle with high energy costs.

What Does the ECO4 Scheme Fund?

The ECO4 Scheme funds a wide range of energy-saving improvements, such as:



Insulation: Loft, cavity wall, and external wall insulation to retain heat and reduce the need for constant heating. Proper insulation is one of the most effective ways to lower energy costs, making your home more energy-efficient and comfortable.

Renewable Energy: Heat pumps, solar panels, and other energy-efficient systems. These technologies reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and provide renewable energy that can lower household energy costs over time.

Additional Upgrades: Draught-proofing, smart thermostats, and efficient boilers. These improvements contribute to better temperature control, ensuring your home remains comfortable year-round.


The funding is allocated based on the type of property, its energy needs, and the improvements required, ensuring maximum impact for eligible households. The more energy-efficient your home becomes, the lower your long-term energy costs, making this an investment in your property’s future.

How to Apply for the ECO4 Scheme

Applying for the ECO4 Scheme is straightforward. Follow these steps to get started:

Check Your Eligibility: Use an online tool or contact a scheme provider to confirm your household qualifies. Ensure you have up-to-date information about your household income and property type to expedite the process.

Prepare Your Documents: Gather proof of benefits, property details, and energy usage information. It’s helpful to have utility bills and government benefit documentation on hand when applying.

Contact a Provider: Work with an accredited installer or energy company to begin your application. Accredited providers will ensure that the work is completed to a high standard and meets all necessary regulations.

Install the Upgrades: Once approved, schedule the installation of the recommended energy-saving measures. Providers often offer flexible scheduling, so you can choose a time that’s convenient for you.

Your ECO4 Scheme Questions Answered

Many people have questions about the ECO4 Scheme, so we’ve compiled some of the most common ones:



How Much Funding Can I Receive?
The amount of funding varies depending on your property’s energy needs and the improvements required. Some households may receive full funding for all necessary upgrades, while others may need to contribute a small amount.

How Long Does the Process Take?
Typically, it takes a few weeks from application to installation. However, this can vary depending on the complexity of the required upgrades and the availability of installers.


The ECO4 Scheme is a fantastic opportunity for UK households to improve energy efficiency, save money, and contribute to a greener environment. By upgrading your home’s energy systems, you can enjoy long-term savings, increased comfort, and reduced carbon emissions. Check your eligibility today and take the first step towards a more sustainable home.

Black Airsource Heat Pump
By Mariel October 16, 2024
Home heating accounts for 38% of gas use in the UK, contributing to considerable CO2 emissions, with the average gas boiler emitting 2.2 tonnes of CO2 annually. An air source heat pump, powered by renewable electricity, offers a more sustainable alternative, which is why the government is promoting its adoption. The UK government aims to phase out gas boilers by 2035 as part of its plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. To support this transition, grants are being offered to help households install air source heat pumps and other low-carbon heating solutions, encouraging homeowners to switch from their old gas and oil boilers to cleaner, greener options.
By Mariel April 12, 2024
Various heat pump variants, such as air source, ground source, and hybrid systems, offer efficient and environmentally friendly heating options for your home, all while being cost-effective. Preparing your home for a heat pump involves several key considerations: Insulation and Energy Efficiency : Before installing a heat pump, assess your home's insulation and overall energy efficiency. Upgrading insulation and improving energy efficiency can significantly reduce energy costs and ensure optimal performance from your heat pump. Available Space: Determine if your property has enough space for the type of heat pump you're considering, whether it's an air source, ground source, or hybrid system. Different heat pump types require specific space considerations, so ensure your property meets these requirements. Planning Permissions: Check with your local authority to understand if your heat pump installation requires planning permission. Regulations can vary, so it's important to align your plans with local guidelines to avoid any legal issues. Radiators and Pipework: Evaluate your existing radiators and pipework to determine if they're compatible with a heat pump. Heat pumps can work with various heating systems, including radiators and underfloor heating. In some cases, minor adjustments or upgrades may be necessary for optimal compatibility. Maintenance and Servicing: Plan for regular maintenance and servicing of your heat pump to ensure it operates efficiently and maintains longevity. Access to qualified technicians for servicing and addressing any issues promptly is essential for optimal heat pump performance. By addressing these factors, you can better prepare your home for a heat pump installation, ensuring maximum efficiency and effectiveness of your heating system.
By Mariel March 14, 2024
Heat pumps are required to display an energy label indicating their efficiency level, ranging from dark green (most efficient) to red (least efficient). Since September 26, 2015, all newly manufactured heat pumps must come with an EU product label. Additionally, the installer is responsible for providing a package label that showcases the efficiency based on various components within the heating system. Any heat pumps certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme must include a product label upon sale, and the installer must also provide a package label. Failure to have a product label may result in the heat pump being ineligible for Government grants. Air-source heat pumps are among the most efficient methods for heating homes, resulting in significantly lower running costs compared to conventional heating systems. According to the Energy Saving Trust, heating a home with gas costs around 4.6p per kWh, while standard electric heaters cost between 9 and 16p per kWh. A typical air source heat pump may run at approximately 4.7p per kWh, potentially dropping to 2.3p if utilizing Economy 7 electricity or switching to our GoElectric tariff. 
By Mariel February 29, 2024
An air source heat pump typically requires an annual check by the owner and periodic maintenance by a professional installer every 3-5 years to ensure efficient operation and prolong its lifespan.
Installing Heat Pump
By Mariel February 10, 2024
The UK's housing stock is aging and heavily reliant on fossil-fuel heating, contributing significantly to carbon emissions. Despite the growing popularity of heat pumps, there's a pressing need for a major overhaul to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
Share by: