The aim of Government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO) boiler grant scheme is to reduce the cost of heating bills for those living on a low family income in the UK (excluding Northern Ireland). The UK’s ‘Big Six’ energy providers fund the boiler grant scheme. It enables homeowners or private tenants who receive benefits related to their income to upgrade their boiler for free.
You do not need to be a customer of British Gas, EDF, nPower, e.on, SSE or Scottish Power to apply for a free boiler, you can apply to any supplier who is running the scheme. Contact your energy supplier to find out if you are eligible or search ‘Replacement gas boiler scheme’ online.
The typical cost of a replacement gas boiler is estimated between £2,000 and £2,500.
Once installed, the average household could expect to see a reduction in their annual gas bill by as much as £300 as a result of the new boiler being much more efficient.
Note: the cost of any additional work, like fitting new radiators or pipework, is not covered under this scheme.
The replacement gas boiler scheme is available to families on a low income
To qualify for a free replacement gas boiler grant, you need to meet certain criteria relating to your household circumstances and your current gas boiler. The current replacement boiler scheme requires:
Your current gas boiler needs to be at least seven years old and no longer deemed efficient. The scheme does not include oil or wood fired boilers at present.
Council owned properties and Housing Association accommodation have boiler replacement schemes of their own and are not covered by the government scheme.