The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a UK government scheme that was introduced in 2013 to reduce the country's carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency. One of the ways the scheme achieves this is by providing free or subsidised boilers to low-income households. In this blog, we will explain the criteria you need to meet to get a free boiler through the ECO4 scheme.
Income: To be eligible for a free boiler under the ECO4 scheme, you must be in receipt of certain benefits or have a low income. Benefits that qualify are:
Child Tax Credits (CTC) – *some restrictions apply
Child Benefit - *Some restrictions apply
Income based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA)
Income related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
Universal Credit (UC)
Working Tax Credit (WTC)
Housing Benefit
Pension Credit Saving Credit
If you're not in receipt of any of these benefits, you may still be eligible through Local Authority funding if you have a low income, each case is assessed on your personal circumstances so get in touch now with one of our experts to discuss.
Property type: Your property type is also an important factor in determining eligibility for a free boiler under ECO4. If you live in a private rented property, you will not be eligible for a free boiler. If you own your own home, you may be eligible, provided you meet the other criteria.
Boiler type: The ECO4 scheme only covers certain types of boilers, so it's important to check that your existing boiler is eligible for replacement. Generally, the scheme covers non condensing gas boilers and not oil boilers.
Age and condition of the existing boiler: The ECO4 scheme is designed to help households with old and inefficient boilers. To be eligible, your existing boiler must be over 10 years old and in need of replacement, or broken.
Location: The ECO4 scheme is available in England, Scotland, and Wales, but is not available in Northern Ireland.
Energy performance of the property: The energy performance of your property is another important factor that is considered when determining eligibility for a free boiler under ECO4. The scheme is designed to help households with poor energy efficiency, so the property must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of 'E', 'F', or 'G'.
In conclusion, if you meet the criteria outlined above, you may be eligible for a free boiler through the ECO4 scheme. If you're not sure whether you qualify, you can contact Direct Savings for advice.
By replacing your old, inefficient boiler, you can reduce your energy bills and help the environment, so it's definitely worth checking if you're eligible.