The UK government through boiler grants are providing eligible households with new boilers or little or no cost at all. The goal is to reduce the UK’s carbon footprint and enhance energy efficiency. The Boiler upgrade scheme is a grant that is provided to homeowners to replace existing fossil fuel heating systems with low carbon heating systems. This guide looks at who qualifies for a boiler grant in the UK.
The scheme which started on 23rd May 2022, will run up to 2025 with a £450m funding earmarked for the three years. It is all part of the government’s plan to achieve its goal of zero carbon emission in the UK by 2050.
Low income households can reduce fuel poverty, minimise energy costs by upgrading to a more efficient boiler. They also reduce carbon emissions and contribute to environmental protection. Through the free boiler grants, you will benefit from a 0% VAT rate on the purchase and free boiler installation.
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme is an initiative put in place by the UK government in partnership with energy companies. The aim is to assist low income homes upgrade their heating systems through installation of air source heat pumps, free boiler replacement, etc. By this initiative, UK households can improve their energy efficiency, reduce fuel poverty and access renewable energy affordably.
The current ECO scheme is the ECO4 scheme as this is the fourth round of the initiative.
For you to be eligible for a free boiler grant you need to meet the qualifying criteria. The free boiler grant scheme is not available for everyone but for those who really need financial help so as to make their homes more efficient. In this section we will focus on who qualifies for a boiler grant in the UK.
You could be entitled to a free boiler if you meet the eligibility criteria and your current boiler is inefficient, outdated, or faulty.
In order to qualify for a boiler grant, you need to meet the following criteria:
You must be the property owner.
The current boiler in the property must be at least 8 years old.
The property must be connected to the mains gas supply.
Your property must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below.
You or anyone permanently living with you must be in receipt of a qualifying benefit.
Here Are the Qualifying Benefits for a Free Boiler Grant
Pension Credit Guarantee Credit Element
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Income Support
Working Tax Credits
Child Tax Credits
Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
Attendance Allowance
Carer’s Allowance
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
Severe Disablement Allowance
War Pensions Mobility Supplement
Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Constant Attendance Allowance
Child Benefit
If you claim Child Benefit, we will need further information from you to be sure that you qualify.
However, aside from these qualifying benefits, there are also other income thresholds you have to meet.
You may be entitled to replace inefficient boilers and improve the energy efficiency of your home if you fall within any of the following income thresholds:
If you are a single claimant:
One child – £18,500.
Two children – £23,000.
Three children – £27,500.
Four or more children – £32,000.
If you are claiming as a couple:
One child – £25,500.
Two children – £30,000.
Three children – £34,500.
Four or more children – £39,000.
Your property is eligible if-
It has a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with no outstanding recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation. You can visit the Gov.uk website to check your EPC.
On the other hand, new build properties which the developer is still building are not eligible. Social housing as well as a property that has previously received government funding or support for a heat pump or biomass boiler are not eligible.
Firstly, check if you are eligible for the grant by visiting the government’s website or contacting your local energy supplier.
Find an accredited installer who can carry out the installation for you once you have confirmed eligibility.
They will carry out a survey of your home to be sure what type of heating is most suitable for your home.
Complete the application form either by filling it online or by post. In the form, you are to provide information about your current boiler and heating system. In addition, you will provide information about your household income and benefits. Ensure the application form is filled correctly.
Your application will be reviewed by the appropriate body and you will be notified of the success of your application.
You will make arrangements with the licensed installer on when and how to install your new boiler. Sometimes, you may have to contribute towards the cost of the installation.
At eco-grants.com, we are committed to ensuring that you get a swift and personalised solution to your heating needs. We provide you with a platform to connect you with trusted installers in your area that can assist with your new boiler installation.
We can also get you up to 3 free quotes for your new boiler replacement project. All you need to do is to complete our online form and we will provide you with these quotes from which you can choose the best deal.
We are your go to guys for a hassle-free boiler grant in 2024. You can also give us a call 08081754911 to get started.