Universal Credit (UC) and Eligibility for the ECO4 Grant Scheme

Are you receiving Universal Credit (UC)? If so, you could qualify for the government-backed ECO4 energy efficiency grant. This scheme helps UK households access free home improvements like new boilers, insulation, and renewable energy systems.

    SSL Certificate Icon

    Simply Enter Your Postcode


    Select your address


    Simply Enter Your House name/number and street












    Sorry we are unable to help in this instance. Social housing residents should contact their local council or housing association for advice and support.












    Sorry, based on your answers we are unable to help in this instance. You and/or your property must meet certain eligibility requirements to access home energy grants.





    We cannot guarantee a specific time or date to contact you. However, we will do our very best to call you at a time or day that is convenient for you. Our opening times are: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.



    If you are eligible for the ECO4 grant and once your install is complete, you will receive a free energy-saving gift pack or a £100 cash award, as a thank you from us for choosing Fairway Energy.

    Terms Apply.





    What Is the ECO4 Scheme?

    The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a government initiative aimed at helping low-income and fuel-poor households reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint.

    The current phase–ECO4–runs until March 2026 and targets homes that are energy inefficient, particularly those in Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) bands D–G.

    What is Universal Credit (UC)?

    Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit designed to support individuals and families with a low income, whether they are unemployed or in work. It replaces several previous benefits, including Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Housing Benefit. UC is intended to simplify the welfare system, making it easier for people to access financial support and encouraging work by providing consistent support as income changes.

    What Home Improvements Can You Get with ECO4?

    If you are eligible for ECO4 because you are in receipt of universal credit and meet the other eligibility requirements, this means that you could receive the following:

    Panel Frame Vertical Grid Lines Horizontal Grid Lines Stand Solar panel installation
    Boiler Body Display screen Control dials Pipes Free boiler replacements
    Wall outline Stud frame Insulation fill Loft and cavity wall insulation
    Outer unit Fan housing (circle) Fan blades Pipes Air source heat pumps

    All of these measures are offered under a full home assessment via the ECO4 scheme.

    Do You Qualify for ECO4 on Universal Credit?

    The eligibility for the scheme is partially determined by the receipt of certain benefits, such as Universal Credit. This is because being in receipt of UC demonstrates a financial need, making you partially eligible for the scheme. This criteria helps meet the aim of the scheme, which is to alleviate fuel poverty and ensure that vulnerable groups have access to warm, energy-efficient homes.

    Therefore, if you receive Universal Credit, you’re likely eligible for the ECO4 scheme–provided your home also meets certain energy efficiency criteria.

    To qualify:

    • You or someone in your household must receive Universal Credit.
    • Your property should have a low EPC rating (typically D, E, F, or G).
    • If your property is on-gas, your current boiler must have an efficiency rating less than 86.7%
    • The property must be privately owned or privately rented with landlord consent.

    Not sure about your EPC? Check your home’s EPC here.

    I Receive Universal Credit but What Else Do I Need?

    Although receiving Universal Credit is an important step for the ECO4 scheme, other considerations also influence eligibility:

    Property Type and Condition: The type and current condition of your property will affect the specific energy efficiency measures applicable. ECO4 aims to address a variety of property types, including detached houses, semi-detached houses, terraced houses, bungalows, and flats.
    Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Rating: Your home’s current energy efficiency, reflected in its EPC rating, will also be assessed. Homes with lower EPC ratings are more likely to qualify under ECO4.
    Local Authority Flexible Eligibility (LA Flex): Some households may qualify through a referral from their local authority under the LA Flex provision. This can include households that do not directly receive qualifying benefits but are identified as being in need of energy efficiency improvements due to low income and vulnerability.
    Who lives with you: The makeup of your household, such as the presence of young children, elderly members, or individuals with health conditions, can influence eligibility. ECO4 prioritises support for households with vulnerable members.
    Additional Qualifying Benefits: If you receive other qualifying benefits in addition to Universal Credit or instead of, you will likely also qualify.

    These benefits might include:

    Visit our full ECO4 benefits page to learn more.

    How to Apply for ECO4 Support with Universal Credit


    Applying is easy and free. At Fairway Energy, we handle everything–from eligibility checks to installation. Here’s how:

    1. Apply Online

    Simply complete the form to check your eligibility!

    2. Home Survey

    One of our team will be in touch to discuss your application and book a survey of your home.

    3. Home Installation

    Your new heating system and energy-saving measures will be installed in your home.

    Receipt of Universal Credit (UC) and Eligibility for the ECO4 Grant Scheme

    If you are in receipt of Universal Credit, the ECO4 scheme presents a great opportunity for you to improve your home, reduce heating costs, and improve your living conditions. Therefore, by taking advantage of this government initiative, eligible individuals can achieve significant cost savings and health benefits, all while contributing to environmental sustainability. As a result, please get in touch today and we can tell you more about the ECO4 scheme to provide you with a more energy-efficient, economically manageable, and comfortable home.

    ssl secure form
    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Read our full privacy policy.