The ECO4 Scheme (Energy Company Obligation) is a UK government initiative designed to help low-income households improve their energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. The scheme requires energy suppliers to provide energy-saving measures to qualifying homes, such as free or heavily discounted insulation, boiler upgrades, and other energy-saving measures. It is funded by a small levy on energy bills paid by all consumers, and the funding is used to help those most in need. The ECO4 scheme aims to reduce fuel poverty, improve the health and well-being of vulnerable households, and contribute to the UK's target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The ECO4 Scheme is about:
- Eligibility: The scheme is available to households that receive certain types of benefits, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit, or meet specific low-income criteria.
- Energy-saving measures: The scheme provides a range of energy-saving measures, including loft insulation, wall insulation, replacement of inefficient boilers, and the installation of smart meters.
- Funding: The scheme is funded by a levy on energy suppliers, which is then used to fund the installation of energy-saving measures in eligible homes.
- Scheme Duration: The ECO4 scheme is expected to run until 2026, providing support for vulnerable households to improve their energy efficiency.
- Impact: The scheme aims to help over 2 million households improve their energy efficiency and reduce their energy bills over the course of the scheme.
More information about government support for people struggling to pay for their heating can be found here:
https://helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk/help-with-your-bills/








