Boiler grants and ECO4 scheme: what Sussex homeowners need to know
Replacing a boiler is a significant expense, but depending on your circumstances, you may not have to pay the full cost. There are government-backed schemes available that can help Sussex homeowners fund a new, energy-efficient boiler — either partially or, in some cases, entirely free. The two main routes are the ECO4 scheme and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). Here is what you need to know about both, including who qualifies and how to apply.
What is the ECO4 scheme?
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a government scheme that requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in homes across the UK. It has been running in various forms since 2013, and the current version, ECO4, runs until March 2026.
Under ECO4, qualifying homeowners can receive funding towards measures that improve their home's energy efficiency. This can include boiler replacements, loft insulation, wall insulation, and other upgrades. The aim is to reduce fuel poverty and lower carbon emissions by improving the worst-performing homes.
Who qualifies for ECO4?
Eligibility for the ECO4 scheme is based on a combination of factors, including household income, the benefits you receive, and the energy efficiency rating of your property. You are most likely to qualify if:
- You receive certain means-tested benefits, such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit, Income Support, or Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
- Your home has an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F, or G
- You are a homeowner or a private tenant (with the landlord's permission)
There is also a flexible eligibility route, sometimes called ECO Flex, where local councils can refer households that are considered to be in fuel poverty or vulnerable, even if they do not receive the qualifying benefits. Several councils in Sussex, including Brighton and Hove City Council and West Sussex County Council, have signed up to ECO Flex declarations, which means more households in the area may be eligible.
What does ECO4 cover?
ECO4 can cover the cost of replacing an old, inefficient boiler with a new A-rated model, but only as part of a broader package of energy efficiency improvements. The scheme prioritises a whole-house approach, so a boiler replacement may need to be combined with insulation or other measures to qualify. The specific works funded depend on your home's current EPC rating and what improvements would have the greatest impact.
What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a separate government initiative that provides grants towards the cost of replacing fossil fuel heating systems with low-carbon alternatives. This scheme is specifically aimed at encouraging the switch to heat pumps and biomass boilers rather than like-for-like gas boiler replacements.
What does the BUS cover?
- Air source heat pump: Grant of up to £7,500
- Ground source heat pump: Grant of up to £7,500
- Biomass boiler (in rural areas off the gas grid): Grant of up to £5,000
Who qualifies for the BUS?
To qualify, your property must be in England or Wales, have a valid EPC (no older than 10 years), and currently use a fossil fuel heating system such as a gas or oil boiler. The property must also have adequate insulation — specifically, loft insulation to a minimum of 200mm and cavity wall insulation where applicable.
It is worth noting that the BUS is designed for homeowners who are ready to move away from gas altogether. If you want to replace your gas boiler with another gas boiler, this scheme does not apply. However, if you are considering a heat pump and your property is suitable, the grant can significantly reduce the upfront cost.
Other financial support available in Sussex
Local authority schemes
Several Sussex councils run their own energy efficiency programmes or signpost residents to available funding. Brighton and Hove City Council, for example, has historically offered advice and support on home energy improvements, and West Sussex County Council provides information on available grants through their website. It is always worth checking with your local council directly, as schemes change and new funding rounds open periodically.
Energy supplier offers
Some energy suppliers offer their own boiler replacement schemes or payment plans as part of their ECO obligations. These vary by supplier and are subject to availability. Your energy provider may be able to tell you whether you qualify for any support.
Finance and payment plans
If you do not qualify for a grant but still need a new boiler, many installers, including Platinum Boilers, can discuss payment options to help spread the cost. A new boiler is an investment in your home's comfort and efficiency, and there are ways to make it affordable even without grant funding.
How to apply for a boiler grant in Sussex
The application process depends on which scheme you are applying for:
For ECO4
- Check your eligibility based on the benefits you receive and your home's EPC rating. You can find your EPC rating on the government's EPC register.
- Contact an ECO-approved installer or your energy supplier to discuss your options.
- If you do not receive qualifying benefits, contact your local council to ask about ECO Flex eligibility.
- The installer will carry out a home assessment and, if you qualify, arrange the funded works.
For the Boiler Upgrade Scheme
- Ensure your home has a valid EPC and meets the insulation requirements.
- Get quotes from MCS-certified installers for the heat pump or biomass boiler you want.
- The installer applies for the voucher on your behalf through Ofgem.
- Once approved, the grant amount is deducted from the total cost of the installation.
What if I do not qualify for any grant?
If you do not meet the eligibility criteria for ECO4 or the BUS, a new boiler is still a worthwhile investment. Modern A-rated boilers operate at over 90% efficiency, compared to 70% or less for older G-rated models. The Energy Saving Trust estimates that upgrading from an old inefficient boiler to a new A-rated model could save a typical household hundreds of pounds per year on energy bills.
At Platinum Boilers, we offer fixed-price boiler installation packages with no hidden costs, so you know exactly what you are paying before any work begins. Whether you qualify for funding or not, we are happy to discuss the most cost-effective route for your situation.
FAQ
Can I get a free boiler through the ECO4 scheme?
In some cases, yes. If you receive qualifying benefits and your home has a low EPC rating, the full cost of a boiler replacement may be covered under ECO4. However, the scheme typically requires additional energy efficiency measures alongside the boiler replacement, so the works will be assessed on a whole-house basis.
Does the Boiler Upgrade Scheme cover gas boilers?
No. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is specifically designed to support the transition away from fossil fuels. It covers air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, and biomass boilers in eligible properties. If you want to replace your gas boiler with a new gas boiler, the BUS does not apply, but you may be eligible for ECO4 support.
How do I find out my home's EPC rating?
You can check your home's EPC rating for free on the government's Energy Performance Certificate register. Simply enter your postcode and find your property. If your home does not have a current EPC, you can arrange for one to be carried out by a qualified assessor, which typically costs between £60 and £120.
Are there any boiler grants specifically for Sussex residents?
The main schemes, ECO4 and the BUS, are national programmes available across England. However, several Sussex councils participate in ECO Flex, which broadens eligibility for local residents. It is worth contacting your local council directly to ask about any area-specific support or referral pathways.
Can landlords apply for boiler grants?
Landlords can benefit from ECO4 if their tenants receive qualifying benefits and the property has a poor EPC rating. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is also available for rented properties, provided the landlord meets the eligibility criteria. Landlords in Sussex should also be aware of Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which require rental properties to have an EPC rating of at least E.
Whether you qualify for a grant or are looking to invest in a new boiler independently, Platinum Boilers can help. We provide honest advice and fixed-price boiler installations across the whole of Sussex, from Brighton and Worthing to Lewes and Eastbourne. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote and we will walk you through your options.
