If you’re living in the UK and your home feels cold or your energy bills are too high, you might be thinking about getting help to improve things. Two of the best ways to make your home warmer and cheaper to run are: getting a new boiler and adding insulation. But can you get help for both at the same time?

The short answer is yes, you can get both insulation and boiler grants together – but there are rules. Let’s break it down so it’s easy to understand.

What Are Boiler and Insulation Grants?

The UK government offers support to help homes use less energy and reduce heating costs. This support comes in the form of grants for:

• New boilers, to replace old, inefficient ones.
• Insulation, like loft or cavity wall insulation, to keep heat inside your home.

These grants are available through schemes like the ECO4 scheme (Energy Company Obligation) and the Great British Insulation Scheme. They are designed to improve energy efficiency and are often provided at no cost to eligible households.

Can I Get Both Grants Together?

Yes, in many cases, you can receive both a boiler grant and an insulation grant simultaneously. In fact, some schemes encourage combining these improvements to maximize energy efficiency.

For example, under the ECO4 scheme, the government aims to enhance the overall energy efficiency of homes. This means that if your home qualifies, you might receive both a new boiler and insulation upgrades as part of a comprehensive package.
Understanding the Available Schemes

ECO4 Scheme

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme is designed to improve the energy efficiency of homes, particularly for low-income and vulnerable households. Under ECO4, a “whole-house” approach is taken, meaning multiple energy-saving measures, including insulation and boiler replacements, can be installed together if deemed necessary.

Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)

The Great British Insulation Scheme focuses primarily on providing insulation measures to households. While its main aim is to offer single insulation measures like loft or cavity wall insulation, in some cases, additional measures may be considered based on the property’s needs.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for these grants, certain criteria must be met:

• ECO4 Scheme: Eligibility often requires households to be on specific benefits, have a low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating (typically D-G), and own or privately rent their home.
• GBIS: This scheme is available to homeowners, landlords, and tenants (with landlord permission) living in properties with an EPC rating of D-G and falling within Council Tax bands A-D in England or A-E in Scotland and Wales.

Application Process

Applying for these grants typically involves:

1. Assessment: An accredited installer or energy supplier assesses your property’s energy efficiency.
2. Recommendation: Based on the assessment, suitable energy-saving measures are recommended.
3. Installation: Approved measures, such as insulation and/or boiler replacement, are installed by certified professionals.

It’s important to note that while some measures may be fully funded, others might require a contribution, depending on the specific circumstances and scheme guidelines.

Final Thoughts

Yes, it’s possible to receive both insulation and boiler grants together, especially under the ECO4 scheme, which promotes a comprehensive approach to energy efficiency. However, eligibility varies based on individual circumstances and the specific criteria of each scheme. It’s advisable to consult with accredited installers or energy suppliers to determine the best course of action for your home.