In the UK, governments and energy groups have implemented a number of programs to reduce heating costs and carbon emissions. In recent years, the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) has been one of the most significant. ECO4 grants and incentives are important to homeowners, private tenants, and anyone who is concerned about high heating costs. This article explains in simple terms the Free Boiler Scheme, what can be expected in 2026, how to prepare, and who is eligible.
What the Free Boiler Scheme means right now
People often refer to government-funded programmes as the “Free Boiler Scheme”, which pays for efficient, new heating systems. In practice, the ECO4 component of the Energy Company Oblige has been the primary route for funding upgrades. ECO4 provides support for heating and insulation projects for households with low income and vulnerability. The scheme finances the replacement of old boilers and upgrades to electric heating systems as well as insulation that helps homes retain heat for longer. The aim is to reduce energy bills as well as carbon emissions in homes. The scheme will run from April 2022, and cover all measures up until 31 March 2026.
Installers and community providers often refer to the full-funded help as “free boiler grant” because many eligible households pay nothing for the new boiler or installation work. Not every household is eligible. The eligibility depends on the household’s income, benefits, energy rating and, sometimes, age or health. The rules for each programme are different, as is the installer that manages your application.
Why 2026 is important – and why timing matters
ECO4 will run until March 2026. This makes 2026 an important year for homeowners looking to take advantage of this scheme. Registrations and installation take time, according to several energy providers and industry websites. You should apply for ECO4 funding well in advance of the end date to ensure you are eligible. Surveys, approval and installation may take several weeks or even months. Installers warn against waiting until the last weeks to apply, as the pipeline will be full.
During this time, the government’s plans and support programmes are changing. Separate schemes, such as the Boiler Upgrading Scheme (which is designed to promote low carbon heat sources like heat pumps), have their own budgets. After March 2026, the overall policy landscape will change. This means that different funds and regulations will be available. It is important to keep an eye on ECO4 as well as its successor programs if you’re thinking long-term.
Who is likely to qualify for a free boiler or full-funded heating upgrade
The eligibility for free heating upgrades is usually determined by three factors: the household’s income or benefits, its energy performance rating (EPC), and any vulnerability or health requirements. Priority is given to households who receive means-tested benefits, such as Universal Credit and Pension Credit, or have low household incomes. Priority is given to homes with lower EPC ratings, such as E, F, or G, and sometimes even D, because they require more work in order to reduce their bills. People with medical conditions that make them susceptible to cold could also qualify, even if they earn more than the basic threshold. Many ECO4 partners follow the same rules.
Examples of practical examples are pensioners with low incomes, working tax credit families, or households where someone needs better heating for medical reasons. Private tenants are also eligible for the scheme, but their landlord will often have to approve the work. Installers or support providers will require proof of income or benefit, as well as a recent EPC in order to confirm a property’s rating. Most delivery partners offer online tools and phone lines that allow for free early checks.
How much money and how many homes were helped so far
Since 2010, the ECO framework is being implemented in various forms. Millions of measures were installed in the early phases to improve insulation and home heating. Government documents and a number of energy providers have reported large-scale outcomes: millions of measures in millions of homes were installed over the course of previous ECO waves. Since 2022, hundreds of thousands measures have been implemented under ECO4 to help many homes lower their bills and improve their comfort. These figures show the scale and impact of the scheme, but also highlight the challenge that many homes still require help.
Here is a table with broad statistics that are often found on policy and industry pages. These figures are rounded and taken from summaries of government and delivery partners.
Off-gas homes and why they matter for heating help
Gas is not available in homes that are off the grid. They pay more for heating their homes, as they use oil, LPG or electric heating. Official briefings in Great Britain estimate that around 4.4 millions households will be off the gas grid by 2021. These homes are often rural, older and less energy-efficient. Off-gas heating is more expensive and polluting. This makes it a priority for grants.
Gas boilers are not the only solution for households that do not use gas. Heat pumps and low-carbon alternatives may be the best option for some homes. Other times, replacing an older oil or electric system by a high-efficiency, modern gas boiler can reduce bills. ECO4 and other schemes aim to match the best measure with the home, both for cost and carbon reasons. Delivery partners carry out a survey in order to determine the best solution.
How to pick a trusted installer or delivery partner
Select a company registered on official lists that has worked with ECO4 and similar schemes. Be sure to look for references, quotes in writing, and clear communication. Many reputable partners will also list the areas that they cover and what types of measures are installed. You should be wary of any company that asks for upfront payment or wants you to sign over your rights. Check if a company has ever delivered ECO measures and if they are accredited.
Eco Energy Services has become a trusted partner for many homeowners. Eco Energy Services offers tailored surveying and installation to households that qualify. Eco Energy Services, a local partner with extensive experience, can manage your application and installation. This is not a recommendation of the company, but rather a reminder that there are established firms to assist with all aspects of the process.
Final thoughts: balancing warmth, bills, and long-term value
Modern heating systems, along with better insulation, can reduce energy bills and increase comfort within a single winter. Many households have been able to save money by using the Free Boiler Scheme, which is funded under ECO4. The rules, funding, and availability of the scheme change over time. Acting early, confirming eligibility and selecting a reliable delivery partner are the best ways to ensure a smooth upgrade in 2026 and beyond. Information on specific offers, such as the British Gas New Boiler Grant, is readily available. Ask for written information at every step and use the free checks provided by delivery partners. You can get free advice from official pages and community energy centres if you’re unsure.