Many UK households are searching for ways to make their homes warmer without spending thousands of dollars because energy bills continue to be high. Both are two well-liked options supported by the government. Both schemes provide funded or free insulation, but they operate a little bit differently.

You can learn more about these programs, their purposes, and which one is best for your house with the help of this guide.

What Are ECO4 and GBIS?

Both ECO4 and Great British Insulation Scheme are government-backed schemes that pay for insulation in your home. Energy companies fund these programs as they’re legally needed to cut carbon emissions 

ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation 4) runs from 2022 to 2026. It covers a wide range of energy improvements, including insulation, boilers, heat pumps, and solar panels. The scheme focuses on low-income households and homes with poor energy ratings.

GBIS (Great British Insulation Scheme) was launched more recently and runs alongside ECO4. It specifically targets insulation work only. The scheme aims to insulate as many homes as possible, regardless of other energy improvements.

The main difference? ECO4 offers complete energy makeovers. GBIS concentrates purely on stopping heat loss through better insulation. If you need any help or have any question you can contact us!

Quick Comparison: ECO4 vs GBIS

Why These Insulation Grants Matter

The Problem

Many UK homes lose heat through roofs, walls, and gaps. This means:

• Heating systems work harder
• Energy bills increase
• Homes feel cold even with heating on

The Solution

ECO4 and GBIS fund insulation improvements such as loft and wall insulation. By trapping heat inside, these upgrades:

• Reduce energy usage
• Improve comfort
• Lower monthly bills

This is why these grants are so valuable, especially during colder months.

Eligibility Criteria Explained

ECO4 Eligibility

You may qualify for ECO4 if:

• You receive certain income-related benefits
• Your household income is low
• Your property has a poor EPC rating
• Local councils may also approve applications through LA Flex, even if you don’t receive benefits.

GBIS Eligibility

• You may qualify for GBIS if:
• Your home has poor insulation
• Your council tax band falls within the scheme range
• You are on a low or middle income

GBIS is ideal for households that don’t qualify for ECO4 but still need insulation support.

Required Documents for Application

When applying for ECO4 or GBIS, you’ll usually need:

• Recent energy bill
• Proof of income or benefits (if required)
• Property ownership or landlord permission
• Energy Performance Certificate

The process is simple, and most checks are done quickly.

What Impact Can These Grants Have?

The impact of insulation upgrades is long-lasting:

• Homes stay warmer for longer
• Heating systems are used less often
• Energy bills reduce year after year
• Carbon emissions are lowered

For many households, GBIS insulation upgrades make an immediate difference, especially during winter.

Conclusion

Both ECO4 and GBIS exist to solve the same issue: homes that are costly to heat. The difference lies in who they help. ECO4 focuses on vulnerable households, while GBIS opens the door for more people to access free insulation.

If your home feels cold and your bills are high, one of these schemes could be the solution. Checking eligibility takes only a few minutes and could lead to long-term savings and better comfort.

FAQs

1. Is GBIS really free?
Yes, insulation upgrades are fully or mostly funded for eligible households.

2. Can I apply for both ECO4 and GBIS?
You only need to apply once. You’ll be matched to the right scheme.

3. Do tenants qualify for GBIS?
Yes, with landlord permission.

4. How long does the process take?
Eligibility checks take minutes, and installations are arranged after approval.

5. Will insulation upgrades disrupt my home?
Most installations are completed quickly with minimal disruption.