Millions of UK residents could be eligible for a free boiler upgrade without even knowing it. The government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, which kicked off in 2013 and will continue until 2028, offers free home improvements nationwide.
The scheme ensures major UK energy suppliers provide a certain level of free assistance to their customers. This help can include home enhancements such as loft insulation or the installation of energy-efficient boilers.
These upgrades not only have environmental benefits but could also potentially lower energy bills for homeowners. The scheme aims to combat fuel poverty and cut carbon emissions.
Currently, the scheme is in its fourth iteration (ECO4), which began in 2022 and will run until 2026. Ofgem sets targets for energy providers and monitors their progress.
If you’re considering a new energy-efficient boiler, you may qualify for an upgrade if you meet the criteria, reports Nottinghamshire Live.
Energy companies offering ECO support:
- British Gas
- E (Gas & Electricity) Ltd
- E.ON UK Solutions
- Ecotricity
- EDF
- Octopus Energy
- Outfox the Market
- OVO
- Scottish Power
- So Energy (Including ESB Energy)
- The Utility Warehouse
- Utilita Energy Ltd
If your boiler often malfunctions or is over 10 to 15 years old, it’s likely not operating at its best efficiency. A new, modern boiler is built to be significantly more efficient and will enhance your overall performance. Additionally, if your home was constructed before the 1990s, it probably lacks adequate insulation.
Who qualifies for ECO support?
If you’re a resident of England or Wales living in private housing (either owning your home or renting from a private landlord) or social housing, and claim certain benefits, you may be eligible for assistance with energy-saving improvements to your home.
Similar support is available for those residing in Scotland through Home Energy Scotland.
Those who receive the Warm Home Discount as part of the ‘core group’ are likely to qualify. If you live in private housing and receive one of the specified benefits, you could be eligible for help too.
If you reside in private housing and receive any of the following benefits, you could qualify for assistance.
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Universal Credit
- Pension Guarantee Credit
- Pension Savings Credit
- Income Support
- income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Child Benefit
- Housing Benefit
For homeowners, your property must have an energy efficiency rating of D, E, F or G. For tenants, the rented property must have an energy efficiency rating of E, F or G, and you’ll need the landlord’s permission to carry out the work. Social housing residents with homes rated E, F or G might qualify for help with insulation or installing a heating system for the first time.
How to apply for ECO:
To apply for the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), start by researching top suppliers and their offerings. Once you’ve found a suitable one, contact them directly or apply via their website.
A list of participating suppliers can be found on the Ofgem website. Your local council may also be involved in the ECO scheme, so it’s worth checking with them too.
Keep in mind that while many options are free, there may be charges for certain aspects of the installation. It’s advisable to confirm this with the supplier before proceeding.
Different suppliers can offer unique services, so it’s beneficial to explore your options to find the best fit for your home. You don’t need to be a customer to utilise any of the ECO suppliers.
