Is the ECO4 Scheme a Scam?
10 Myths You Need to Stop Believing
Is ECO4 a Scam? The scheme promises free solar panels, boilers, insulation, and other home energy upgrades—without you having to spend a penny. Sounds too good to be true, right?
That’s exactly why so many people are skeptical. Misinformation, social media chatter, and scammy cold callers have made homeowners and tenants question whether the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is the real deal—or is the ECO4 Scheme a scam.
Let’s set the record straight. The ECO4 scheme is 100% legitimate and backed by the UK government and Ofgem. But to help you feel confident about it, we’re busting 10 of the biggest myths holding people back from saving on their energy bills.
💷 MYTH 1: “You’ll Have to Pay the Grant Back” – ❌ False!
Truth: ECO4 grants are completely free for those who qualify. You do not have to pay the money back now or later.
The scheme is funded by major energy companies, not the taxpayer. It’s part of their legal obligation to reduce carbon emissions—so when you get an upgrade, the cost is covered through that funding.
✔️ No loans. No hidden costs. No surprise repayment letters.
🧯 MYTH 2: “You Have to Be a Homeowner to Qualify” – ❌ False!
Truth: Homeowners and private tenants can benefit from ECO4.
If you’re renting, you’ll need your landlord’s consent for installation—but many landlords are on board because the upgrades improve property value and EPC ratings.
✔️ Whether you rent or own, you could be eligible.
🔧 MYTH 3: “You Won’t Own the Solar Panels After Installation” – ❌ False!
Truth: You absolutely will own the solar panels (or any energy-saving upgrade) once they’re installed.
There’s no lease or pay-to-own arrangement. They’re yours. Period.
✔️ No catches, no ongoing fees—just lower energy bills.
🌥️ MYTH 4: “Solar Panels Only Work on Hot Days” – ❌ False!
Truth: Solar panels rely on sunlight, not heat.
Even in cloudy weather, solar panels in the UK produce energy—making them a perfect fit for the British climate.
✔️ Think light, not heat. Solar still works on overcast days.
🔥 MYTH 5: “Condensing Boilers Don’t Qualify” – ❌ False!
Truth: It’s about efficiency, not boiler type.
If your condensing boiler has an efficiency rating under 86.7%, you may still qualify for a replacement or upgrade under ECO4.
✔️ Your boiler might still be eligible—check out your current boiler’s energy efficiency rating.
❌ MYTH 6: “It’s a Scam – Nobody Gives Away Free Stuff” – ❌ False!
Truth: ECO4 is a regulated, government-backed initiative that’s been running since 2013. It’s not a scam, but there are scammers out there pretending to be part of it—so always check that the installer is TrustMark-registered.
✔️ Legit installers, real savings, and no gimmicks.
❌ MYTH 7: “You Must Be on Benefits to Qualify” – ❌ False!
Truth: While receiving certain benefits can fast-track eligibility, you don’t need to be on benefits to qualify.
Thanks to LA Flex (Local Authority Flexibility), councils can approve applications from low-income households or those with specific health conditions—even if they don’t meet the standard criteria.
✔️ Not on benefits? You could still qualify through LA Flex.
❌ MYTH 8: “You’ll Only Get a New Boiler – Nothing Else” – ❌ False!
Truth: ECO4 takes a whole-house approach to improving energy efficiency. You could be offered:
- Loft, wall, or underfloor insulation
- Smart heating controls
- Air source heat pumps
- Solar PV panels
- First-time central heating systems
✔️ It’s not just a boiler swap—it’s a full energy upgrade.
❌ MYTH 9: “The Process Is Long and Disruptive” – ❌ False!
Truth: Most installations are completed within a few days, with minimal disruption to your home.
A trained energy assessor will visit your property, carry out a retrofit assessment, and your chosen upgrades will be handled by the installation team and engineers. The entire process is surprisingly smooth.
✔️ No DIY nightmares—just simple upgrades done fast.
❌ MYTH 10: “It’s Just a Sales Tactic” – ❌ False!
Truth: Some dodgy cold callers have given the scheme a bad name—but the scheme itself is real and heavily regulated.
Only certified installers registered with TrustMark can carry out work under ECO4. That’s your quality guarantee.
✔️ Always check credentials—but don’t let the fakes ruin it for you.
✅ Final Thoughts: Should You Trust the ECO4 Scheme?
Short answer: Yes.
The ECO4 scheme offers a real opportunity to improve your home’s energy efficiency, reduce your carbon footprint, and save hundreds on your energy bills—all for free if you qualify.
So, don’t fall for the myths. If your home has poor insulation, an outdated boiler, or if you’ve noticed your energy bills creeping up, it’s time to see what you’re entitled to.
🔍 How to Check Your Eligibility
You’ll usually need:
- Your postcode and property details
- Info about your income or benefit status
- Landlord permission if renting
Our team can verify your eligibility in just a few minutes—and guide you through the next steps. Please feel free to share this article with any friends and family who may also be asking is the ECO4 scheme a Scam?
Gary is the Operations Manager at Fairway Energy and a specialist in renewable energy and technology, with over 15 years’ experience. He has in-depth expertise in energy-efficient measures for residential properties and UK government-backed grant schemes and funding.