New boiler grant

The UK government's boiler grant scheme!

The boiler grant scheme, also known as the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), is a government initiative aimed at helping low-income households and vulnerable individuals to replace their old, inefficient boilers with new, energy-efficient ones. Here's a breakdown of the scheme:

Who is eligible?

To be eligible for a boiler grant, you must:

  1. Be a homeowner or private tenant
  2. Be receiving certain benefits, such as:
    • Pension Credit
    • Income Support
    • Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
    • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
    • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
    • The guarantee element of Pension Credit
    • Child Tax Credit, provided you're not entitled to Working Tax Credit and have a gross annual income of no more than £16,190
  3. Have a boiler that is at least 5 years old or has a low energy efficiency rating (less than 86%)
  4. Have a household income of less than £30,000 per year

What is the grant amount?

The grant amount varies depending on the type of boiler and the energy efficiency rating of the new boiler. Typically, the grant can cover up to 100% of the cost of a new boiler, with a maximum value of around £3,000 to £4,000.

How to apply?

To apply for a boiler grant, you can:

  1. Contact a participating energy supplier: There are several energy suppliers that offer the ECO scheme, such as British Gas, E.ON, and npower. You can visit their websites or contact their customer service teams to find out more.
  2. Use an ECO-approved installer: You can also search for ECO-approved installers in your area, who can help you apply for the grant and install the new boiler.
  3. Contact a local authority: Some local authorities, such as councils, may also offer the ECO scheme or have information on how to apply.

What's the process?

The application process typically involves:

  1. Initial assessment: An ECO-approved installer will assess your eligibility and provide a quote for the new boiler.
  2. Application: You'll need to complete an application form, which will be reviewed by the energy supplier or local authority.
  3. Installation: If your application is approved, the installer will install the new boiler.
  4. Payment: The energy supplier or local authority will pay the grant amount to the installer.

Remember to always check the eligibility criteria and the terms and conditions of the grant scheme before applying.