ECO4 Eligibility Explained: Who Qualifies in 2025

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme provides fully-funded energy efficiency improvements to eligible UK households. If you qualify, you could receive free insulation, heating upgrades, or renewable energy systems without paying a penny.

But who exactly qualifies for ECO4 in 2025? This guide breaks down the eligibility criteria in plain English, so you can understand if you're likely to be accepted.

1. Income-Based Eligibility

One of the main ways to qualify for ECO4 is through your household income. If your combined household income is below a certain threshold, you may be eligible even if you don't receive benefits.

Income Thresholds for 2025:

Less than £31,000 per year (after tax)
Lower thresholds may apply for larger households

Income-based eligibility is particularly helpful for working households who may not qualify through benefits but still struggle with energy costs.

2. Benefits-Based Eligibility

If anyone in your household receives certain means-tested benefits, you'll likely qualify for ECO4 automatically. This is the most straightforward eligibility route.

Qualifying Benefits Include:

Universal Credit
Pension Credit (Guarantee or Savings Credit)
Income Support
Job Seeker's Allowance (income-based)
Employment & Support Allowance (income-related)
Child Tax Credit
Working Tax Credit

You'll need to provide proof of benefit receipt during the application process, but approved installers will guide you through this.

3. EPC Rating Requirements

Your property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating is a crucial factor. ECO4 specifically targets homes with poor energy efficiency.

EPC Requirements:

Properties rated D, E, F, or G are eligible
Homes rated A, B, or C typically don't qualify
If you don't have an EPC, one can be arranged

Don't know your EPC rating? You can check it for free on the government's EPC register, or UGRANT can help arrange a new assessment.

4. Property Ownership

Both homeowners and tenants can apply for ECO4, but there are different requirements depending on your situation.

Who Can Apply:

Homeowners: Can apply directly
Private tenants: Need landlord permission
Social housing tenants: May apply with housing association consent

If you're a tenant, don't let this put you off. Many landlords welcome ECO4 improvements because they increase property value and reduce future maintenance costs.

5. Additional Eligibility Factors

Beyond the main criteria, several other factors can affect your eligibility:

Fuel poverty: If you spend more than 10% of your income on energy, you may qualify
Vulnerable households: Families with young children or elderly residents may receive priority
Property type: Most domestic properties qualify, including houses, bungalows, and flats
Previous installations: If you've had ECO funding before, you may still qualify for additional measures