What is the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)?

The Great British Insulation Scheme, also known as GBIS or ECO+, is a government grant focused on making homes more energy-efficient by funding a single primary insulation measure, such as loft or cavity wall insulation. It runs alongside the broader ECO4 scheme.

Who is eligible for the Great British Insulation Scheme?

Eligibility for GBIS is wider than for ECO4. You may qualify if your home has an EPC rating of D-G and is in Council Tax bands A-D in England or A-E in Scotland/Wales. A low-income pathway is also available for those on qualifying benefits, regardless of their Council Tax band.

What is the difference between GBIS and ECO4?

The main difference is the scope of work. GBIS typically covers one insulation upgrade per household. In contrast, ECO4 provides a more comprehensive "whole-house" retrofit, which can include multiple insulation measures, a new heating system, and renewable energy installations.

The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)

A government energy efficiency scheme delivering free insulation to a wide range of households across Great Britain.

What is The Great British Insulation Scheme?

The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) is a government initiative that complements the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme. While ECO4 focuses on a 'whole house' approach, GBIS is designed to deliver single, high-impact insulation measures to a broader range of households. The scheme aims to help households save on their energy bills, make homes more energy-efficient, and reduce carbon emissions.

It is targeted at homes with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D-G, and those in Council Tax bands A-D in England and A-E in Scotland and Wales.

A Government-Backed Scheme

The UK Government ECO Scheme is funded by energy suppliers and subject to full regulation by Ofgem.

To find out more about this scheme, please visit the gov.uk website.

What Insulation Measures Are Available?

The scheme focuses on providing single insulation measures, such as:

Cavity wall insulation
Solid wall insulation (internal or external)
Loft insulation
Pitched roof insulation
Flat roof insulation
Underfloor insulation
Solid floor insulation
Park home insulation
Room-in-roof insulation

A cross-section of a wall showing cavity wall insulation being installed

Who is Eligible for GBIS?

There are two eligibility routes for the Great British Insulation Scheme:

1. The General Group

This group is for households that do not receive benefits but meet the following criteria:

Your home has an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G.
Your property falls within Council Tax bands A-D in England, or A-E in Scotland and Wales.

This route aims to support the least energy-efficient homes in the lower council tax bands.

2. The Low-income Group

This route is for households with a low income or in receipt of certain benefits. The criteria are the same as for the ECO4 scheme, which includes receiving benefits like:

Pension Credit
Universal Credit
Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
Income Support
Housing Benefit
Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit

You may also be eligible through the LA Flex route, where local authorities can refer households they consider to be in fuel poverty or on low incomes.

How Do I Apply?

Applying is simple. The first step is to check your eligibility. Our online checker can quickly determine if you qualify for the Great British Insulation Scheme. If you are eligible, our team will guide you through the next steps, including a free survey of your property and arranging the installation.

A homeowner smiling after having insulation installed through the GBIS scheme

Ready to Make Your Home Warmer?

Check your eligibility today. It’s quick, easy, and the first step towards a more comfortable and energy-efficient home.

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