In Wales, where the weather can be damp and chilly for much of the year, keeping your home warm is essential not just for comfort but also for health and wellbeing. Insulation is one of the most effective ways to achieve this. It reduces heat loss, cuts down energy usage, and makes your home more cost-efficient to run. Homes without adequate insulation often lose as much as 35% of their heat through the roof and walls, leading to higher heating bills and increased carbon emissions.
Proper insulation helps maintain a steady indoor temperature, preventing draughts and cold spots. This is particularly important in rural and older properties, which are common across Wales and often fall short in energy efficiency standards. By insulating your home, you’re not only improving your own living conditions but also contributing to national efforts to reduce carbon footprints and achieve sustainability targets.
To support households in making energy-efficient upgrades, the UK government has developed several schemes aimed at funding insulation work. In Wales, two standout programmes are available: the ECO4 scheme and the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS). Both initiatives are geared towards improving household energy efficiency, reducing fuel poverty, and meeting carbon reduction goals.
These schemes provide financial support that can either fully cover or significantly subsidise the cost of installing various types of insulation. Each has its own eligibility criteria and application processes, which we will explore in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Insulation grants are a form of financial aid provided by the government or energy suppliers to help homeowners and tenants upgrade their home insulation. The purpose is to lower energy bills, improve household energy efficiency, and reduce carbon emissions. These grants remove or reduce the upfront cost barriers, making it easier for families to live in warmer, healthier homes.
Loft Insulation: One of the most cost-effective upgrades, it involves laying insulation material in your loft to reduce heat escaping through the roof. It can lower heating costs by up to £300 a year and lasts for over 40 years.
ECO4 is the latest phase of the Energy Company Obligation, a UK-wide initiative requiring large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in low-income and vulnerable households. It aims to deliver long-term carbon savings and help tackle fuel poverty by funding energy-saving measures, including insulation.
To qualify for ECO4 in Wales, households generally need to be receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, or Housing Benefit. Those not on benefits might still be eligible via the Local Authority Flexibility (LA Flex) route if they have a low income or specific health conditions.
ECO4 focuses on the least energy-efficient homes with EPC ratings of E, F, or G. The goal is to bring these homes up to at least a C or D rating through upgrades including loft, wall, underfloor, and roof insulation.
The scheme is delivered through a network of accredited installers. After confirming eligibility, households receive a home survey, and approved measures are installed at no cost.
The GBIS is a newer initiative aimed at helping a wider range of people, including those not on benefits. It focuses on single insulation measures and typically provides partial funding.
There are two groups within GBIS:
GBIS funds measures like loft, cavity wall, and solid wall insulation. Although it may not cover the entire cost, it significantly reduces it. Typical savings range from £200 to £650 per year.
Delivery is through energy companies and accredited installers across Wales, sometimes in partnership with local councils.
Applying is straightforward:
Documents you may need:
Avoid mistakes like using non-accredited installers or failing to follow up on paperwork.
We offer a free home energy survey to determine the best insulation options for your property. While we are not installers, we work with a trusted network of fully accredited professionals.
Our team:
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Yes, under ECO4. GBIS typically covers one measure per application.
Tenants can apply with landlord permission. Landlords are encouraged to support these upgrades.
Usually 4–8 weeks from survey to completion.
Both schemes run until March 2026, but funding is limited, so apply early.
You may receive a follow-up inspection and documentation confirming the work and EPC rating.
Insulation grants in Wales offer vital support to make homes warmer, healthier, and more energy-efficient. Whether you qualify under ECO4 or GBIS, there is meaningful help available.
Get started today by contacting Green Homes Group for advice, a free home survey, and help with your application. Let us guide you towards a more comfortable and cost-effective home.
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