Did you know that as a pensioner you might be eligible for a boiler grant as part of the Government’s Energy Company Obligation?
A new gas boiler typically costs around £2,300 which can be a big ask for pensioners and low income households. However, thanks to the Government’s boiler grant scheme, if your existing boiler is broken or inefficient and meets the qualifying criteria you could receive a grant towards a brand new one.
If you’re a pensioner who owns their home (private tenants are not currently able to apply for a boiler grant) in receipt of Pension Guarantee Credit, or other eligible benefits, you may be able to apply for a free boiler grant towards the cost of replacing your gas boiler.
In some cases the grant can mean that the new boiler installation is completely free, whilst others may be asked to make a financial contribution but the cost of the boiler would still be significantly reduced.
The grant itself is always free, meaning you will never be expected to pay any of it back.
What is the Energy Company Obligation?
The government’s Energy Company Obligation or ECO scheme requires the UK’s six biggest energy suppliers to help us to improve the energy efficiency of our homes by reducing heating costs and carbon emissions. To do this they are obliged to fund the installation of new boilers and / or insulation for low income households and districts. By installing a more energy efficient boiler and reducing the amount of heat that escapes your home, you can significantly reduce your heating bills.
Currently the ECO scheme offers boiler grants for gas boilers, although funding is very limited under the scheme.
The ECO scheme has been changed several times since it was first introduced with differing eligibility criteria and grants available. In October 2018 a new version of the ECO was launched, and the government decided to change the scheme so that it focuses 100% on the Home Heating Cost Reduction Obligation (HHCRO).
Under HHCRO you could qualify for a free grant to help with the cost of installing a new boiler in your home. The ECO scheme is also referred to as the Affordable Warmth Scheme (or Obligation) and is available is England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Wales is supported by a similar scheme called Nest which is managed by British Gas. Apply for a free boiler grant now by filling in our simple online form.
How can pensioners qualify?
More and more pensioners are struggling to meet the demands of escalating energy bills, and with many on limited incomes a new boiler is an expense many simply cannot afford.
Pensioners in receipt of Pension Guarantee Credit and those who receive Working Tax Credit may qualify for a boiler grant to help them become more energy efficient with a view to bringing down their heating bills. But even if you don’t receive Pension Guarantee Credit you could still qualify for a grant if you get Working Tax Credit or other qualifying benefits.
As long as your boiler is old, inefficient or broken and you meet the following criteria you should be able to apply for a free boiler grant:
- You own your own home, or
- You live in social housing (unfortunately we can’t currently process these applications, so please seek further advice from the Energy Saving Advice Service)
- You’re in receipt of Pension Guarantee Credit, or
- Are 60 years old or more and receive Working Tax Credit
How to apply for a government boiler grant
It’s easy to apply for the boiler grants scheme. Simply answer a few questions on the form on this website and submit your application. If it looks like you’re eligible for the grant we’ll give you a call to confirm your details and assess your eligibility.
You’ll be one step closer to being the lucky recipient of a brand new A-rated boiler, which we’ll arrange to have installed by a Gas Safe Registered Boiler Grants installer.
We understand that not everyone is able to apply online themselves. If you require help in applying please don’t hesitate to contact us. Alternatively you can ask a family member, carer or friend to apply on your behalf.
